Chivey Saffron Rice
Elevate your mealtime with Chivey Saffron Rice, a visually stunning and aromatic side dish that combines the golden hues of saffron with the fresh, herbaceous flavor of chives. Perfectly fluffy basmati rice is infused with the luxurious essence of saffron, enhanced by a buttery base and a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives for a pop of color and zest. This easy-to-make recipe offers a special touch, thanks to blooming saffron threads in warm water to unlock their full flavor and fragrance. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, pairing beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or hearty stews. Try this recipe for a fragrant, flavorful side that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups basmati rice
- 3 cups water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 0.25 teaspoon saffron threads
- 2 tablespoons hot water
- 0.25 cup fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from clumping.
Place the saffron threads in a small bowl and gently crush them with your fingers or a spoon. Add 2 tablespoons of hot water to the saffron and let it bloom for 5-10 minutes.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, add the rinsed rice and stir gently, coating each grain with the butter.
Pour in the 3 cups of water, add the salt, and increase the heat to high. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
Cook the rice for 15 minutes, without removing the lid. After 15 minutes, check to ensure the water has been fully absorbed, then remove the saucepan from heat.
Allow the rice to sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to finish steaming.
Gently fluff the rice with a fork and drizzle the bloomed saffron (along with its liquid) over the rice. Mix carefully to distribute the saffron color and aroma evenly.
Finely chop the fresh chives and sprinkle them over the rice. Add black pepper to taste, then gently stir to incorporate the chives.
Serve the Chivey Saffron Rice warm as a side dish or enjoy on its own. Garnish with extra chives if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
593 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 24.2 g | 31% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.1 g | 66% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 66 mg | 22% | |
| Sodium | 2543 mg | 111% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 78.2 g | 28% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.4 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.3 g | ||
| Protein | 12.9 g | 26% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 145 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 6.7 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 281 mg | 6% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
