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Basmati Rice with Saffron (Zaffrani Pulao)
Basmati Rice with Saffron (Zaffrani Pulao)
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Prep Time:
1 hour
Total Time:
1 hour 51 minutes
Basmati rice dazzles with luxurious saffron, a match made in culinary heaven.
Ingredients:
  • 1 cup uncooked basmati or regular long-grain rice
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup raw whole cashews
  • 1/4 cup golden raisins
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seed
  • 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 5 cardamom pods
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 three-inch cinnamon sticks
  • 2 medium red onions, cut in half and thinly sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups cold water
  • 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
  • Place the rice in a medium bowl and cover it with cold water. Gently rub the rice between your fingers and then drain. Repeat this process 4 or 5 times until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  • Heat oil in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-high heat. Add cashews and stir-fry for 10 to 20 seconds until they turn golden brown. Remove the cashews with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels.
  • Drop raisins into the sizzling hot oil and stir-fry for 20 to 30 seconds until they plump up. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to drain with the cashews.
  • In hot oil, quickly sizzle cumin seed, peppercorns, cardamom pods, cloves, bay leaves, and cinnamon sticks for 15 to 30 seconds. Stir in the onions and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they are golden brown.
  • Gently stir-fry rice for 1 minute, being careful not to break the tender grains. Add 1 1/2 cups cold water, saffron, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-high. Cook uncovered for 5 to 6 minutes until almost all the water evaporates, stirring occasionally.
  • Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the rice to cook for 5 minutes, then remove from heat. Let the rice stand covered for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Fluff rice with a fork or spoon to release steam. Serve garnished with roasted cashews and raisins, keeping the peppercorns, cardamom pods, cloves, bay leaves, and cinnamon sticks for added flavor (do not consume).