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Persian Jeweled Rice

Delicious Persian Jeweled Rice Recipe with Nuts and Fruits


  • Author: basmer
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delicious Persian Jeweled Rice is a vibrant, fragrant basmati rice dish featuring saffron, orange zest, dried fruits, and nuts. This festive recipe is ideal for special occasions, offering a sweet-savory balance and stunning presentation.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1 pinch saffron threads
  • 2 tablespoons hot water (for blooming saffron)
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 large carrot, julienned
  • 1/4 cup barberries (or dried cranberries)
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds
  • 1/4 cup shelled pistachios
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil

Instructions

  1. Rinse basmati rice several times until the water runs clear. Soak in salted water for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add the rice and boil for 6–8 minutes until it’s soft on the outside but firm inside. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a pan, melt butter and sauté carrots, orange zest, barberries, and raisins. Add sugar and cook until soft and aromatic. Remove from heat.
  4. Bloom saffron by crushing threads and steeping them in hot water for 5–10 minutes.
  5. In a non-stick pot, add canola oil and a bit of butter. Optionally line with potato slices or flatbread for tahdig. Begin layering: rice, jeweled mix, nuts. Repeat, finishing with rice on top. Drizzle saffron water over.
  6. Cover the lid with a clean towel, place it tightly on the pot, and steam over low heat for 45 minutes.
  7. Gently fluff rice with a fork and transfer to a platter. Garnish with extra pistachios and jewels. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Great with lamb, chicken, or vegetarian sides.
  • Can adjust dried fruits according to preference.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Persian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Persian Jeweled Rice, Basmati Rice, Festive Rice Dish