Saffron Rice with Almonds

Saffron Rice with Almonds is a fragrant and colorful Moroccan dish that combines the rich flavors of saffron with the crunch of toasted almonds. This dairy-free recipe is perfect as a side dish or a light vegetarian main course.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Water - 400 milliliters
• Saffron threads - 1/4 teaspoon
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Almonds (slivered) - 50 grams
• Onion (finely chopped) - 1 small
• Garlic (minced) - 1 clove
• Cinnamon stick - 1 small piece
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley (chopped) - 2 tablespoons (for garnish)

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 15 minutes, then drain.
2. In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water for about 10 minutes.
3. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds and toast them until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the almonds and set aside.
4. In the same saucepan, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cinnamon stick, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in the drained rice, saffron with its soaking water, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the 400 milliliters of water and bring to a boil.
6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
7. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the toasted almonds.
8. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 7 g
• Carbs: 58 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from saffron, which may help improve mood and reduce inflammation.
• Almonds provide healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium.

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