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Indian Saffron Rice

Shruthi
Basmati rice is rinsed and soaked to encourage long, fluffy grains.Saffron threads are gently steeped in warm milk or water to release their color and aroma.Whole spices are toasted in fragrant ghee.The soaked rice is added and lightly coated with the aromatic ghee.The rice is cooked gently until every grain is tender and separate.Saffron, nuts, and raisins provide a luxurious finishing touch.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Indian, North Indian
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ cups basmati rice
  • 2½ cups water or light vegetable stock
  • ½ teaspoon saffron threads
  • 2 tablespoons warm milk
  • 1 small cinnamon stick
  • 3 green cardamom pods
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced, optional
  • 1 tablespoon almonds, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon raisins
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon sugar, optional

Instructions
 

  • Place the basmati rice in a large bowl.
  • This removes excess surface starch and helps produce separate, fluffy grains.
  • Cover the rinsed rice with fresh water and soak for 20–30 minutes.
  • Place the saffron threads in a small bowl.
  • The milk will gradually develop a beautiful golden color and floral aroma.
  • Heat a large heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add a small amount of ghee.
  • Add the remaining ghee to the saucepan.
  • Sauté for approximately 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
  • Cook over medium heat until soft and lightly golden.
  • Add the drained basmati rice.
  • Avoid vigorous stirring because soaked rice grains can break easily.
  • Add salt and optional sugar.
  • Cook for approximately 12–15 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
  • Once the rice is cooked, drizzle the saffron-infused milk over the top.
  • Gently fluff the rice with a fork.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use good-quality basmati rice for the longest and most fragrant grains.
  • Rinsing removes excess starch and helps prevent sticky rice.
  • Soaking allows the grains to expand more evenly.
  • Saffron should be steeped before adding it to the rice.
  • Ghee provides a richer flavor than neutral oil.
  • Do not stir the rice excessively while cooking.
  • Let the rice rest before fluffing.
  • Adjust the nuts and raisins according to your preference.

 

Keyword Easy Saffron Rice Recipe, Fragrant Indian Rice, Indian Rice Recipe, Indian Saffron Rice, Saffron Basmati Rice, Saffron Pulao