Elevate your mealtime with this aromatic and vibrant Vegan Saffron Rice recipe, perfect as a side dish or the star of your plate. Infused with the delicate floral notes of saffron, this recipe features fluffy basmati rice cooked in rich vegetable broth and layered with the savory flavors of sautéed onion and garlic. The luxurious aroma and golden hue of the saffron make this dish as visually stunning as it is delicious. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this quick and easy recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you're seeking a vegan-friendly option or simply exploring global flavors, this saffron rice is a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove extra starch and keep the rice fluffy.
In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm vegetable broth and set aside.
Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the rinsed rice and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the rice with the oil and the aromatics.
Pour in the remaining vegetable broth, add the saffron and its soaking liquid, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and all the liquid is absorbed.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Calories |
937 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 35.4 g | 45% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.9 g | 30% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2868 mg | 125% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 132.0 g | 48% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.8 g | 42% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.3 g | ||
| Protein | 24.9 g | 50% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 171 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 8.7 mg | 48% | |
| Potassium | 1571 mg | 33% | |
*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.