Luxurious Saffron Infused Rice Pilaf

Ingredients

- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup golden raisins
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Saffron Infusion
- In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of warm water with 1/4 teaspoon of saffron threads. Allow it to steep while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. This will enhance the saffron's color and flavor.

2. Rinse the Rice
- Rinse 2 cups of long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Drain and set aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add 1 small finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 1 minute.

4. Cook the Rice
- Add the drained rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat the grains with the butter.
- Pour in 3 1/2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the saffron infusion. Stir in the saffron water to distribute evenly.
- Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground turmeric.

5. Simmer the Pilaf
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
- Avoid lifting the lid during this time to ensure even cooking.

6. Finish the Pilaf
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of toasted sliced almonds and 1/4 cup of golden raisins.

7. Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the pilaf to a serving platter and garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley.

Preparation & Cooking Times

- Preparation Time: PT15M
15 minutes

- Cooking Time: PT25M
25 minutes

Total Time

- PT40M
40 minutes

Type of Dish

- Dinner

Keywords

- Saffron
- Rice Pilaf
- Stove-cooked
- Dinner
- Gourmet Recipe
- Saffron Infusion
- Aromatic Rice
- Pilaf Recipe
- Simple Dinner
- Nutty Rice

Recipe Yield

- Feeds 4 adults

Calories

- Total Calories: 1,200

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