Basmati Rice with Saffron

Basmati Rice with Saffron

from aheadofthyme.com
40 min
4 servings

Basmati rice with saffron is an essential side in Middle Eastern diets. Make it in 15 minutes with this easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 4 cups water
  • 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
  • salt to taste
  • pinch of saffron (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon hot water

Directions

  1. 1

    Pour the rice into a medium-sized pot.

  2. 2

    Fill up the pot halfway and rinse the water. Discard the water.

  3. 3

    Repeat this step 2-3 times to rinse the rice unit the water becomes clear. Again, discard the water.

  4. 4

    Add the 4 cups of water, vegetable oil and salt.

  5. 5

    Bring the pot to a boil over high heat.

  6. 6

    Allow the water to continue to boil until it has been absorbed by the rice and you no longer see any water over top of the rice (roughly 5 minutes).

  7. 7

    Turn the heat down to low and cover the rice.

  8. 8

    Cook for 30-40 minutes.

  9. 9

    Create a saffron-infused garnish: Grind a pinch of saffron using a mortar and pestle. If you don't have one of those, just grind it in a small bowl using the back of a small spoon. Next, add a 1 tsp. of hot water and mix evenly. Take 1/2 cup of the cooked rice and add it in. Mix well until rice is fully combined and becomes a beautiful yellow colour.