Fragrant Saffron Basmati Rice
Indulge in the aromatic goodness of Fragrant Saffron Basmati Rice, a classic Indian side dish that elevates any meal with its vibrant color and rich taste. The golden hue from saffron, combined with the warm notes of cinnamon and cardamom, creates an exquisite flavor profile that is sure to delight your palate. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also adds an impressive touch to your dinner table. Pair it with your favorite curry or enjoy it on its own for a truly satisfying experience. Don't forget, you can make your own ghee to enhance the richness of the dish! For step-by-step visuals, check out a helpful thread you can find online.
4
Servings
230
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Basmati rice
2 cups (Rinsed and drained)
Saffron threads
1 teaspoon (Soaked in water)
Boiling water or chicken broth
4 cups (For cooking)
Ghee or butter
6 tablespoons (Melted)
Cinnamon sticks
2 inches (Whole)
Whole cloves
4 (Whole)
Finely chopped onion
1 cup (Fresh)
Minced garlic clove
1 (Fresh)
Salt
2 teaspoons (To taste)
Ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon (Ground)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, place the saffron threads and cover them with 3 tablespoons of boiling water or chicken broth. Allow the saffron to steep for about 10 minutes to fully develop its flavor and color.
2
While the saffron is soaking, heat 6 tablespoons of ghee or butter in a large 3 or 4-quart stockpot over moderate heat.
3
Once the ghee is melted, add the cinnamon sticks and cloves. Stir them into the ghee for about 1 minute to release their aromatic fragrances.
4
Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté the mixture for about 2 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
5
Stir in the basmati rice, ensuring that each grain is coated with the ghee. Sauté the rice for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
6
Pour in 4 cups of boiling water or chicken broth, followed by the salt and ground cardamom. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
7
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.
8
Once boiling, carefully add the saffron along with its soaking liquid. Stir gently to distribute the saffron evenly throughout the rice.
9
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a tight lid, and allow it to cook undisturbed for 25 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid to ensure proper steaming.
10
After 25 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
11
Fluff the rice with a fork, carefully removing the cinnamon sticks and cloves. Serve the saffron rice hot, garnished with fresh herbs or nuts if desired.
Nutrition Information
6.25g
Fat
45g
Carbs
3.75g
Protein
0.75g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fragrant Saffron Basmati Rice?
It is a classic Indian side dish characterized by its vibrant golden color from saffron and aromatic notes of cinnamon and cardamom.
What are the main ingredients for this saffron rice recipe?
The main ingredients include Basmati rice, saffron threads, ghee or butter, cinnamon sticks, cloves, onion, garlic, and ground cardamom.
How do I prepare the saffron?
Cover 1 teaspoon of saffron threads with 3 tablespoons of boiling liquid and let it steep for 10 minutes to develop its flavor and color.
Can I use butter instead of ghee?
Yes, the recipe allows for the use of either 6 tablespoons of ghee or butter.
What is the first step in cooking the rice?
The first step is to steep the saffron threads in boiling water or chicken broth for 10 minutes.
How long should I sauté the whole spices?
Sauté the cinnamon sticks and cloves in melted ghee for about 1 minute to release their fragrance.
How long do the onions and garlic need to cook?
Sauté the finely chopped onions and minced garlic for about 2 minutes until the onions are translucent.
Why do I need to sauté the rice?
Sautéing the rice for 5 minutes ensures each grain is coated with ghee, which improves texture and prevents sticking.
What liquid is used to cook the rice?
You can use 4 cups of either boiling water or chicken broth.
When should the saffron be added to the pot?
Add the saffron and its soaking liquid once the rice and broth mixture has reached a rolling boil.
What is the cooking time for the rice?
The rice should cook undisturbed on low heat for 25 minutes.
Should I stir the rice while it is simmering?
No, you should avoid lifting the lid or stirring the rice during the 25-minute simmering period to ensure proper steaming.
How long should the rice rest after cooking?
Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing.
What should I do with the whole spices before serving?
Carefully remove the cinnamon sticks and cloves from the rice after fluffing it with a fork.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Is this saffron rice recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is a vegetarian dish, especially if using water or vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 230 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 6.25 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein is in this dish?
Each serving provides about 3.75 grams of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 45 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much fiber does this rice have?
One serving contains 0.75 grams of fiber.
What type of pot should I use?
A large 3 or 4-quart stockpot is recommended for this recipe.
What can I garnish the rice with?
You can garnish the finished rice with fresh herbs or nuts if desired.
How much salt is required?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of salt, or you can adjust to taste.
What is the amount of ground cardamom used?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom.
What size should the cinnamon sticks be?
The recipe suggests using 2 inches of cinnamon sticks.
How many cloves are needed?
You will need 4 whole cloves for this recipe.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
No, this recipe does not contain any added sugar.
What pairs well with Saffron Basmati Rice?
It pairs excellently with your favorite curry or can be enjoyed as a standalone side dish.