Quick and Easy Saffron Rice
Brighten up your mealtime with this Quick and Easy Saffron Rice recipe, a vibrant and aromatic side dish that’s perfect for elevating any meal in under 30 minutes. Made with fragrant basmati rice, infused with the luxurious flavor of saffron, and enhanced by a touch of butter or olive oil, this dish offers restaurant-quality elegance without the fuss. A pinch of optional turmeric adds an extra golden hue, while fresh parsley makes for a stunning garnish. With minimal prep time and simple one-pot cooking techniques, this gluten-free recipe pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian mains. Say goodbye to plain rice and add a burst of color and flavor to your table tonight!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Basmati rice
- 2 cups Water
- 1 large pinch Saffron threads
- 2 tablespoons Hot water
- 1 tablespoon Butter or olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Ground turmeric (optional, for extra color)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
In a small bowl, combine the saffron threads with 2 tablespoons of hot water. Let it steep for 5 minutes to extract its color and flavor.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the grains. This step enhances the rice’s nutty flavor.
Pour in the 2 cups of water, the saffron mixture, salt, and turmeric (if using). Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, turn off the heat but leave the lid on. Let the rice sit undisturbed for an additional 5 minutes to finish steaming.
Fluff the rice gently with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
347 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 12.3 g | 16% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.5 g | 38% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 31 mg | 10% | |
| Sodium | 1200 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 51.0 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.0 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.1 g | ||
| Protein | 7.3 g | 15% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 59 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 3.4 mg | 19% | |
| Potassium | 89 mg | 2% | |
*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.
