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Saffron Rice

Irresistible Saffron Rice - Fluffy Perfection in 20 Minutes

Saffron Rice is a vibrant and fluffy side dish that enhances any meal, ready in just 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 1 cup Basmati Rice white basmati offers a wonderful aroma and fluffy texture
  • ¼ teaspoon Saffron choose high-quality saffron for best results
  • ½ teaspoon Turmeric offers anti-inflammatory health benefits
For the Aromatics
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • ½ cup Onion diced
For the Seasoning
  • ½-¾ teaspoon Cumin adjust based on your taste preferences
  • ⅓ teaspoon Sugar balances the spices
  • ½ teaspoon Salt adjust to your liking
For Cooking
  • 1½ cups Chicken Broth low-sodium; substitute with vegetable broth for vegan
  • 1 tablespoon Butter for sautéing the aromatics
  • 1 tablespoon Oil for sautéing the aromatics

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Mortar and Pestle

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Saffron Rice
  1. Soak the Rice: Place 1 cup of basmati rice in a bowl, cover with cold water, and soak for 20 minutes. Drain and rinse until water runs clear.
  2. Prepare Saffron: Measure ¼ teaspoon of saffron threads, crush gently, and soak in ¼ cup of hot water for 10 minutes.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon each of butter and oil over medium heat. Add ½ cup of diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant.
  4. Toast Rice: Add the soaked, drained basmati rice to the saucepan, and gently toast for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
  5. Add Spices and Broth: Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of cumin, turmeric, salt, and sugar. Pour in the saffron mixture and 1½ cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Stir to combine.
  6. Boil & Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat low, cover and let simmer for 10 minutes.
  7. Rest: Remove from heat and keep covered for an additional 10 minutes.
  8. Fluff and Serve: Uncover, fluff the saffron rice with a fork, and serve alongside your favorite dishes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 4gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 160mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

For the best results, choose high-quality saffron and rinse the basmati rice thoroughly to achieve fluffy texture.

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