Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with this One Pot Simple Moroccan Saffron Rice Pilaf. This delightful dish is a perfect blend of nutty basmati rice, fragrant spices, and sweet dried fruits, making it an impressive centerpiece for family dinners or special occasions. With its easy preparation and minimal cleanup, this one-pot recipe ensures a stress-free cooking experience. Packed with nutritious ingredients like almonds and dried fruits, it’s not only delicious but also a healthy option that will leave your guests craving more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup white Basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 strands saffron
- ¼ cup boiling water (for saffron infusion)
- 1 ¼ cups water
- 1 white onion (finely chopped)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon ground fennel
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup mixed dried fruits (apricots, raisins, cherries)
- ¼ cup toasted almonds (chopped)
- ¼ cup toasted pistachios (chopped)
Instructions
- Steep saffron in boiling water for about 10 minutes.
- Rinse Basmati rice under cold water until clear to remove excess starch.
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat; sauté onions until translucent (approx. 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and spices; cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in rinsed rice, coat with spice mix for about 3 minutes.
- Pour in saffron-infused water and additional water; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes.
- Turn off heat; layer dried fruits on top without stirring and let stand for another 10 minutes.
- Mix in toasted almonds and pistachios; fluff with a fork before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg