Saffron Rice

Saffron Rice is a fragrant and colorful Lebanese dish that brings warmth and elegance to any meal. Infused with the delicate flavor of saffron and complemented by toasted almonds, this vegetarian rice dish is perfect as a side or a main course.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Water - 300 milliliters
• Saffron threads - 0.1 grams
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Almonds - 30 grams, sliced
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 20 minutes. Drain the rice afterwards.
2. In a small bowl, steep the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water and set aside for 10 minutes.
3. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in the drained rice, salt, and black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the rice with the oil and onion mixture.
6. Pour in the 300 milliliters of water and the saffron water, including the threads. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan.
7. Let the rice simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
8. While the rice is cooking, toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
9. Once the rice is done, remove it from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently fold in the toasted almonds and chopped parsley.
10. Serve the saffron rice warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 7 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from saffron and parsley.
• Provides healthy fats from olive oil and almonds.

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