Saffron Almond Rice
Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant and aromatic Saffron Almond Rice, a stunning blend of golden-hued basmati rice infused with delicate saffron threads and fragrant cardamom. Perfectly toasted slivered almonds add a satisfying crunch, while optional plump golden raisins bring a touch of sweetness to this elegant dish. Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is an easy yet luxurious accompaniment to both casual family dinners and festive gatherings. Garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color, this flavorful rice pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or spicy curries. Whether you’re hosting or craving a touch of indulgence, this saffron rice will dazzle both the eyes and the palate!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Basmati rice
- 3 cups Water
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Saffron threads
- 2 tablespoons Hot water
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 0.5 cup Slivered almonds
- 0.25 teaspoon Ground cardamom
- 0.25 cup Golden raisins (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
In a small bowl, combine the saffron threads with 2 tablespoons of hot water. Let it steep for 5 minutes to release the saffron's color and aroma.
In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice and salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
While the rice cooks, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds and toast them, stirring frequently, until golden brown. Be careful not to burn them.
If using golden raisins, add them to the skillet with the toasted almonds and cook for an additional minute until plump. Remove from heat.
Once the rice is done cooking, fluff it with a fork. Gently stir in the saffron water, ensuring an even distribution of color and flavor.
Add the toasted almonds (and raisins, if using) to the rice. Sprinkle with ground cardamom and mix gently to combine.
Transfer the saffron almond rice to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1071 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 58.7 g | 75% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.7 g | 84% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 2396 mg | 104% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 121.7 g | 44% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.6 g | 34% | |
| Total Sugars | 31.6 g | ||
| Protein | 26.4 g | 53% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 250 mg | 19% | |
| Iron | 7.8 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 941 mg | 20% | |
*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.
