Saffron Rice Pilaf
Ready in half an hour, saffron rice is a delicious side dish that pairs well with proteins, vegetables, curry and stews. Perfect to please a crowd!
Servings: 2 Portions
Calories: 415kcal
Ingredients
- 1 cup Basmati Rice or other long grain rice
- 15-18 Saffron Threads or half a bag of powdered saffron
- 2 tablespoon Butter
- 1 Onion Finely Chopped
- 1.5 cups Water or broth, or stock
- Salt to Taste
Instructions
- Soak the saffron in a bowl with 3 tablespoons of warm mater (in addition to the one mentioned in the ingredients list). This will allow it to fully release its flavor and color.
- Melt the butter in a heavy bottomed pan over medium heat. As soon as it is warm, add the chopped onions and a pinch of salt.
- Sautee the onions, mixing frequently, and cook them until they become soft and translucent.
- Next, increase the heat to high and add the raw rice. Mix well, and toast it until it changes color and its edges become translucent too. This process will take a another 3-5 minutes.
- Now, add the room temperature water and the saffron water. Mix well once more.
- Immediately, cover the pan with a tight fitting lid and bring to a boil. As soon as the it boils, reduce the heat to low. If necessary, move the pan to the small hob, as you want the cooking liquid to gently simmer, not boil. Cook the rice for 10 minutes.
- Once done, switch the heat off, and allow the rice to rest while still covered for a further 10 minutes. Do not remove the lid or mix the rice just yet!
- After resting, fluff your rice with a fork.
- Your saffron rice pilaf is now ready to be served - enjoy!
Notes
Storing and Reheating: To store, cool the saffron rice to room temperature. Refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. You can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the saffron rice in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of broth or water.
Vegan Option: You can use extra virgin olive oil instead of butter.
Nutrition
Calories: 415kcal | Carbohydrates: 92g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Sodium: 124mg | Potassium: 200mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 3IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 75mg | Iron: 1mg