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Saffron Rice

Saffron Rice: Fluffy, Flavorful Side Dish in Just 20 Minutes

Saffron Rice is a quick and easy gluten-free side dish that adds vibrant color and flavor to any meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Middle Eastern, South Asian
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 cup White Basmati Rice Use this aromatic rice for its fluffy texture and delightful scent.
  • 1 tablespoon Butter Adds richness and flavor; substitute with olive oil for a vegan twist.
  • 1 tablespoon Oil Any neutral oil works well.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 half cup Yellow Onion Fresh onion provides sweetness.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Freshly minced enhances aroma.
For the Flavor
  • ½ teaspoon Cumin Powder Adds warmth and earthiness.
  • ½ teaspoon Turmeric Powder Essential for that signature yellow color.
  • ⅓ teaspoon White Sugar Balances flavors; optional.
  • 10-15 strands Saffron Threads Key to flavor and color.
For Cooking Liquid
  • 1½ cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth For a vegetarian option, swap with vegetable broth.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Rice: Soak 1 cup of white basmati rice in cold water for about 20 minutes. Rinse until water runs clear, then drain.
  2. Infuse Saffron: Steep 10-15 strands of saffron in ¼ cup of hot water for 10 minutes.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In a saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of oil. Add ½ cup of diced onion and sauté until soft, then stir in 3 minced garlic cloves.
  4. Add Rice & Spices: Stir in the drained rice for 2 minutes, then add the cumin, turmeric, sugar, and saffron with soaking liquid.
  5. Cook the Rice: Add 1½ cups of chicken broth, bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
  6. Rest and Fluff: Turn off heat and let sit covered for another 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 4gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftover saffron rice in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of water.

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