Description
Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning colors of Persian Jeweled Rice, a festive dish perfect for celebrations and special gatherings. This aromatic rice combines fragrant basmati with saffron, sweet dried fruits, crunchy nuts, and warm spices, creating a dish that is as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Base
- 2 cups Basmati rice (Rinsed and soaked)
- 4 cups Water (For boiling)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Butter or ghee (For richness)
- 1 pinch Saffron threads (Soaked in warm water)
Fruit and Nuts
- 1 cup Dried barberries (or cranberries)
- 1 cup Dried apricots (Chopped)
- 1 cup Golden raisins
- 1/2 cup Slivered almonds (Toasted)
- 1/2 cup Pistachios (Chopped)
Spices and Flavorings
- 1 tablespoon Orange zest
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Cardamom
- 1 tablespoon Sugar (For barberries, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for about 30 minutes to ensure fluffiness. Bring 4 cups of water with 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil in a large pot. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling water. Cook the rice until it is partially tender but still firm, about 6-8 minutes. Drain the rice and set aside.
- Sauté Fruit and Nuts: In a separate pan, melt the butter or ghee over medium heat. Add the dried barberries, chopped dried apricots, golden raisins, toasted slivered almonds, chopped pistachios, orange zest, cinnamon, and cardamom. Sauté gently to meld the flavors and soften the fruits, about 5-7 minutes. If using, sprinkle the sugar over the barberries to reduce their tartness.
- Infuse with Saffron: Add the soaked saffron threads along with their water into the sautéed mixture to infuse a rich golden color and a fragrant aroma.
- Combine and Steam: Layer the partially cooked rice over the fruit and nut mixture in the pan or transfer everything carefully to a larger pot. Cover tightly with a lid, and cook over low heat for 20 minutes to allow the rice to fully cook and absorb the flavors, creating the majestic jeweled effect.
- Fluff and Serve: Once cooked, gently fluff the rice with a fork to mix the ingredients evenly without breaking the grains. Serve warm as a stunning centerpiece for your festive meal.
Notes
- Soaking the rice ensures fluffy and separate grains after cooking.
- To toast almonds, dry roast them in a pan over medium heat until golden and fragrant.
- Saffron is best soaked in warm water for 10-15 minutes to release its color and aroma fully.
- Barberries can be substituted with dried cranberries if unavailable.
- Adjust sugar in the fruit mixture based on your preference for sweetness.
- Keep the heat low when steaming rice to prevent burning at the bottom.
