Saffron Rice Medley

Saffron Rice Medley is a vibrant Moroccan dish that combines aromatic saffron-infused rice with a colorful mix of vegetables and spices. This dairy-free delight offers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Water - 400 milliliters
• Saffron threads - 0.1 grams
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion, finely chopped - 1 medium (about 100 grams)
• Garlic, minced - 2 cloves
• Carrot, diced - 1 medium (about 70 grams)
• Bell pepper, diced - 1 medium (about 100 grams)
• Zucchini, diced - 1 medium (about 150 grams)
• Chickpeas, cooked - 100 grams
• Cumin powder - 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley, chopped - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 20 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, steep the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of hot water and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic, diced carrot, bell pepper, and zucchini to the saucepan, and cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
5. Stir in the cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute to release the spices' flavors.
6. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the saucepan, stirring to combine with the vegetables and spices.
7. Pour in 400 milliliters of water and the saffron infusion, bringing the mixture to a boil.
8. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
9. Once done, remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
10. Fluff the rice with a fork, stir in the cooked chickpeas, lemon juice, and chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbs: 62 g
• Fiber: 9 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from saffron and vegetables.
• High in fiber due to chickpeas and vegetables, aiding digestion.

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