Description

This Saffron-Stained Pilaf with Charred Tomatoes is an easy, elevated, and family-friendly weeknight dish. It features the golden aroma of saffron and sweet, smoky charred tomatoes for a hearty and elegant meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 cups Basmati Rice
2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
0.25 tsp saffron threads
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups vegetable broth
3 Tbsp olive oil
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

Instructions

Char Tomatoes: Toss 2 cups cherry tomatoes with 1 Tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a 9×13 inch baking sheet. Roast at 400F (200C) for 10-12 minutes until softened and their skins begin to visibly char and burst slightly.
Saute Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the remaining 2 Tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and saute for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Toast Rice And Bloom Saffron: Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pot, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes until lightly toasted. In a small cup, combine saffron threads with 0.25 cup warm vegetable broth and let it bloom for 1 minute.
Simmer Pilaf: Pour the bloomed saffron broth and the remaining 2.75 cups broth into the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. If too dry, add 2-3 tablespoons of hot broth.
Fluff And Combine: Remove the pot from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Gently fluff the rice with a fork. Carefully fold in the charred tomatoes.

Notes

To save time, use pre-chopped aromatics or skip charring tomatoes (add fresh quartered tomatoes at the end). Do not over-stir rice while simmering; rinse rice thoroughly before cooking to prevent stickiness. Ensure the correct rice-to-liquid ratio for best texture. Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop, Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (approx 200 g)
Calories: 280 calories
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 250 mg
Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 5 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: tomato rice, saffron, pilaf, charred tomatoes, easy weeknight, family-friendly, vegetarian, dairy-free, vegan