This beautiful and fragrant rice is a showstopper side dish that will make any meal more special. It’s perfect for company meals and special occasions. Just a few minutes of your time and a handful of ingredients is all it takes… Rice is my favorite base for a side dish. Some of the most popular rice dishes on GypsyPlate are our Arroz con Gandules and Cajun Dirty Rice. This saffron rice is the simplest and easiest to make, but has such beautiful flavors that it might be the best yet. Saffron has a reputation for being expensive. In fact, it’s the world’s most expensive spice by weight, at $5000 per pound! But don’t worry, this rice isn’t going to break the bank. You only need a tiny amount of saffron to achieve a gorgeous and delicious dish.
Tips for the BEST Saffron Rice
Make sure you’re using real saffron. Buy it from a reputable supermarket or online source.Use basmati or jasmine rice. It cooks much better than regular long grain, and adds its own fragrance.Don’t skip rinsing the rice. This strips off some of the starch and keeps your rice more granular.
Ingredients
Basmati rice Saffron Butter Shallot or onionChicken broth
How to Make Saffron Rice
Start by seeping your saffron in boiling water. This allows time for the beautiful color to come out. Heat the butter in a pot and sauté the shallot till it softens. Add in the rice, and sauté 5-6 for minutes. Stir in the chicken broth and the saffron infused water. Cover, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium low and cook for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. We like to garnish ours with parsley and pomegranate arils.
What to Serve with Saffron Rice
Saffron rice is a great side dish to pair with so many different meats. The flavors are subtle enough that it can go with just about anything. Some of our top pairing choices would be Harissa Chicken, Keftedes, Pork Pinwheels, or Mediterranean Zucchini Boats.
Leftovers and Storage
You can refrigerate leftover saffron rice in an airtight container for 3-4 days. When ready to eat, reheat the leftovers in the microwave. If you wish to freeze the leftovers, spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Place in the refrigerator. Then once it has completely cooled, portion the rice into ziploc bags, then freeze. Give your simple rice a makeover with this easy saffron rice. Once you taste it, you’ll be making it again and again. Pin or bookmark this great recipe so you always know where to find it. And be sure to subscribe to GypsyPlate, we’re always cooking up new recipes for you!
Saffron Rice, on our Gypsy Plate… enjoy!
Try these other great side dishes!Mediterranean Quinoa SaladCreamed CornMoroccan CouscousHabichuelas GuisadasSweet Potato FriesSpicy NoodlesFarro Salad
