Indian Saffron Rice

Ingredients and Weight:

• Basmati rice 2 cups
• Saffron strands 1 gram
• Ghee 1/4 cup
• Bay leaf 1 piece
• Green cardamom 3-4 pieces
• Black peppercorns 5-6
• Onion 1 (medium, chopped)
• Ginger-garlic paste 1 tablespoon
• Green chilies 2 (slit)
• Cumin seeds 1 teaspoon
• Coriander powder 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder 1/4 teaspoon
• Garam masala 1 teaspoon
• Milk 1/2 cup
• Water 2 1/2 cups
• Salt to taste

Preparation Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

20 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (simple)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Soak the saffron strands in warm milk.
2. Wash and soak the basmati rice for 30 minutes.
3. Heat the ghee in a large pan over medium heat.
4. Add the bay leaf, cardamom, black peppercorns, and saute for a few seconds.
5. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
6. Add the ginger-garlic paste and saute until fragrant.
7. Add the green chilies and saute for a minute.
8. Add the cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala. Saute for a few seconds.
9. Drain the rice and add it to the pan. Stir to combine.
10. Add the water and salt to taste.
11. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
12. Once the rice is cooked, stir in the saffron-infused milk.
13. Garnish with chopped cilantro or mint leaves, if desired.

Nutritional Information:

(per serving)

• Calories: 250
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g

Dish Characteristics:

• Aromatic and flavorful
• Rich and creamy
• Perfect side dish for any Indian meal
• Can be served with grilled meats, vegetables, or curries

User Comments:

• "This saffron rice is so delicious and easy to make! I will definitely be adding it to my rotation of favorite dishes."
• "The perfect accompaniment to any Indian meal. I especially love the creamy texture and the subtle saffron flavor."
• "I was pleasantly surprised by how simple this recipe was. It turned out amazing and I got rave reviews from my family."
• "The saffron rice was a hit at my dinner party. It was elegant and flavorful, and everyone asked for the recipe."
• "I am new to Indian cuisine and this saffron rice was a great introduction. It was easy to follow and turned out fantastic."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have saffron strands, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of saffron powder instead.
• If you are allergic to nuts, skip the ghee and use vegetable oil instead.
• For a richer flavor, use full-fat milk.
• To make the rice even more fragrant, add a few drops of rose water or kewra water to the saffron-infused milk.