Easy Saffron Rice Recipe | Fragrant & Fluffy Basmati Rice with Saffron

Here's a simple and delicious recipe for saffron rice:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1 tablespoon warm milk or water
• 2 tablespoons ghee or butter
• 1 small onion (finely sliced)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2-3 cloves
• 1-2 cardamom pods
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups water (or as needed for cooking the rice)
• A handful of chopped cilantro (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Soak the saffron: Place the saffron threads in a small bowl and add warm milk or water. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to release its color and aroma.

2. Prepare the rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and keeps the rice fluffy.

3. Cook the spices: In a pot or pan, heat the ghee or butter over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, and bay leaf. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Sauté the onions: Add the sliced onions and cook until they turn golden brown, about 4-5 minutes.

5. Add rice: Stir in the rinsed rice and sauté for 1-2 minutes to toast the rice lightly with the spices.

6. Add saffron liquid: Pour in the saffron-infused milk or water, along with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.

7. Cook the rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Avoid stirring while cooking to prevent breaking the grains.

8. Garnish and serve: Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and remove the whole spices. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

Tips:

• For extra richness, you can add a tablespoon of cashews or raisins when cooking the onions.
• Adjust the amount of saffron based on how strong you want the flavor to be.

Enjoy your fragrant and flavorful saffron rice! If you are looking for saffron benefits for men and saffron benefits for women.