Description
Saffron Rice Recipe – Fragrant basmati rice infused with aromatic saffron threads, perfect for a quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups (400g) basmati rice
- ½ teaspoon saffron threads (about 0.5g)
- 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced (about 1 cup/150g)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon/9g)
- 1 teaspoon (5g) salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Saffron Gently crush the saffron threads between your fingers or using a mortar and pestle. In a small bowl, combine the crushed saffron with 3 tablespoons of hot water. Let it steep for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. You’ll notice the water turning a beautiful golden-yellow color as the saffron releases its essence.
- Step 2: Prepare the Rice Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water, swishing it around with your fingers until the water runs mostly clear. This removes excess starch and helps ensure your saffron rice will be fluffy with distinct grains. If time permits, soak the rice in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain well through a fine-mesh sieve.
- Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics In a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
- Step 4: Toast and Season the Rice Add the drained rice to the pan with the aromatics. Gently stir to coat each grain with the oil mixture and lightly toast for about 2 minutes. This coating process helps protect each grain and contributes to that perfect final texture in your saffron rice recipe.
- Step 5: Add Liquids and Cook Pour in the broth, the saffron with its soaking liquid, salt, pepper, and bay leaf if using. Stir once to distribute everything evenly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover with the tight-fitting lid, and let simmer undisturbed for exactly 15 minutes.
- Step 6: Rest and Fluff After 15 minutes, remove the pan from heat but keep it covered. Let your fragrant saffron rice rest for an additional 10 minutes – this critical resting period allows the moisture to distribute evenly throughout the grains. Finally, remove the lid, take out the bay leaf, and fluff the golden rice gently with a fork before serving your beautiful saffron rice.
Notes
Fresh ingredients will always yield the best flavor results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg