Sugar-Free Saffron Rice
Experience the delightful aroma and vibrant color of this Sugar-Free Saffron Rice, a wholesome, flavor-packed side dish perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make recipe infuses fragrant basmati rice with earthy saffron and a blend of exotic spices like turmeric, cinnamon, and bay leaf, creating a comforting and visually stunning dish. With no added sugars, it’s a healthy and naturally flavorful option for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Butter-sautéed onions add a touch of richness, while the saffron’s luxurious golden hue elevates this simple yet elegant dish. Ready in just 30 minutes and ideal for pairing with your favorite mains, this saffron rice is a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe you’ll make again and again.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Basmati rice
- 2 cups Water
- 1 pinch Saffron threads
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 1 whole Bay leaf
- 0.25 teaspoon Ground turmeric
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 inch Cinnamon stick
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well in a colander.
In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads with 2 tablespoons of warm water. Set aside to bloom for at least 5 minutes.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and ground turmeric. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the rinsed basmati rice to the saucepan, stirring gently to coat the grains with the butter and spices. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast lightly.
Pour in the saffron water (with threads) and the 2 cups of water. Add the salt and black pepper, stirring to combine.
Increase the heat to high and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Without removing the lid, turn off the heat and let the rice sit for another 5 minutes to finish cooking in its own steam.
Remove the lid, discard the bay leaf and cinnamon stick, and gently fluff the rice with a fork.
Serve hot alongside your favorite main dish, and enjoy the aromatic flavors of sugar-free saffron rice.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
478 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 24.9 g | 32% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.2 g | 71% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 1204 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 58.0 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.5 g | ||
| Protein | 8.1 g | 16% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 87 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 3.9 mg | 22% | |
| Potassium | 190 mg | 4% | |
*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.
