Description
This Saffron Rice Recipe creates a vibrant, aromatic side dish with perfectly fluffy, golden grains using simple stovetop techniques. It’s an easy and elegant addition to any weeknight dinner, ensuring a special touch for busy families.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups basmati or long-grain white rice, rinsed thoroughly
- 0.25 tsp saffron threads, crushed gently
- 2.5 cups hot water or broth
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
- 0.5 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prep the Saffron: Steep 0.25 tsp saffron threads in 0.25 cup hot water or broth for 10-15 minutes in a small bowl to release their beautiful color and delicate aroma.
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse 1.5 cups basmati rice thoroughly under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear, which takes about 1-2 minutes.
- Saute (Optional): In a medium 2-quart saucepan, melt 2 Tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and sauté for 1-2 minutes until slightly translucent around the edges.
- Combine & Simmer: Add the remaining 2.25 cups water or broth and 0.5 tsp salt to the pot. Stir in the steeped saffron liquid. Bring to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce heat to low and cover tightly with a lid.
- Cook & Rest: Cook for 15-20 minutes until all the water is absorbed and small craters appear on the surface. Do not lift the lid during cooking or for the resting period. Remove the pot from heat and let it rest, still covered, for another 5-10 minutes.
- Fluff and Serve: Gently fluff the saffron rice with a fork before serving, separating the grains. The rice should be light and aromatic.
Notes
For dietary adaptations, this recipe is naturally gluten-free (ensure broth is certified GF). Use olive oil or plant-based butter for a dairy-free version. Consider stirring in 1 cup of cooked chickpeas or lentils after cooking for a heartier, vegetarian meal. You can add a pinch of turmeric (0.125 tsp) for a similar golden hue if saffron is a splurge. Garnish with 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish. For extra aromatics, add a bay leaf or 1-2 green cardamom pods to the cooking liquid. A rice cooker can be used for hands-off cooking after initial saffron prep and rice rinsing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.25 cups (200 g)
- Calories: 320 calories
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: saffron rice, fluffy rice, stovetop rice, side dish, easy dinner, basmati, aromatic, weeknight meal, vegetarian option