15 Best Persian Saffron Rice Recipe Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!
Published on: Mar 31, 2024
Persian saffron rice, also known as "jeweled rice" or "shirin polo," is a popular and delicious dish that is perfect for any special occasion. This fragrant and flavorful rice dish is a staple in Iranian cuisine and is often served at weddings, holidays, and other celebrations. If you're looking to impress your guests or simply want to add some variety to your dinner menu, this is the perfect recipe to try. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making the best Persian saffron rice, step by step. So get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this exquisite dish.
Main Ingredients: Chicken Thighs, Salt, Ground Black Pepper, Olive Oil
This classic Persian dish is a perfect combination of tender chicken and fragrant saffron rice. The chicken is marinated in a delicious blend of spices, then cooked on a grill or in the oven until golden and juicy. The saffron rice is light and fluffy, with a beautiful golden hue that adds a touch of elegance to the dish. It's a simple yet impressive meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Saffron is a prized spice in Persian cuisine, and it's no surprise that it features heavily in their rice dishes. This traditional saffron rice recipe is made by cooking basmati rice with saffron, butter, and a touch of sugar. The result is a delicate, aromatic rice that pairs perfectly with any meat or vegetable dish.
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Easy Persian Saffron Rice
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Butter, Water, Saffron, Salt, Rose Water
If you're looking for a quick and easy way to make Persian saffron rice, this recipe is for you. It uses pre-cooked basmati rice that is flavored with saffron, cinnamon, and cardamom. The result is a fluffy, flavorful rice that is ready in just 10 minutes. It's a great option for busy weeknights when you want to add a touch of elegance to your meal.
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Persian Saffron Rice Pudding (Sholeh-Zard)
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Water, Salt, Granulated Sugar, Saffron
This sweet and creamy rice pudding is a popular dessert in Persian cuisine. It's made by cooking rice with saffron, cardamom, and rose water, and then topping it with nuts and dried fruits. It's a delicious way to end a meal and is often served during special occasions and holidays.
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Persian Saffron Rice Pudding (Sholeh Zard)
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Water, Salt, Granulated Sugar, Saffron
While the previous recipe used rose water as a flavoring, this version of saffron rice pudding uses orange blossom water for a unique and refreshing twist. It's a delightful dessert that is both creamy and fragrant, and it's perfect for those who love the flavors of the Middle East.
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Apricot Persian Saffron Rice
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Butter, Blanched Almonds, Dried Apricots
This colorful and flavorful rice dish combines the sweetness of apricots with the fragrance of saffron. The basmati rice is cooked with dried apricots, saffron, and a hint of cinnamon, resulting in a dish that is both sweet and savory. It's a great side dish for any meal and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
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Baked Persian Saffron Rice (Tahchin)
Main Ingredients: Saffron Threads, Orange Zest, Basmati Rice, Butter
This impressive rice dish is often served at special occasions and celebrations in Persian culture. It's made by cooking basmati rice with saffron and yogurt, then layering it with chicken or lamb and baking it until golden and crispy. The result is a beautiful and delicious dish that will wow your guests and leave them asking for the recipe.
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SHOLEH ZARD | PERSIAN SAFFRON RICE PUDDING
Main Ingredients: Boiling Water, Granulated Sugar, Rosewater, Saffron
This version of saffron rice pudding is made with a twist – it's topped with a delicious saffron syrup that adds an extra layer of flavor and sweetness. The rice is cooked with saffron and cardamom, then topped with the syrup and garnished with pistachios and almonds. It's a decadent and delicious dessert that is perfect for special occasions.
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Persian Saffron Rice (Tachin)
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Salt, Water, Dried Barberries, Unsalted
This recipe for saffron rice is a classic and simple version that is perfect for those who want to experience the flavors of Persian cuisine. It uses basmati rice, saffron, and butter, and is cooked in a pot on the stove until light and fluffy. It's a great side dish for any meal and is sure to become a family favorite.
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Persian Saffron Chicken {Zereshk Polo Ba Morgh}
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Bone In Chicken, Large Yellow Onion
This dish combines tender chicken with fragrant saffron rice and tangy barberries. The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices and then cooked with onions and tomatoes until tender and juicy. The rice is cooked with saffron, butter, and barberries, giving it a beautiful red hue. It's a delicious and colorful dish that is sure to impress.
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Persian Pan Kebabs With Saffron Rice
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Beef Mince, Onion, Turmeric Powder
These pan kebabs are a great option for those who want to experience the flavors of Persian cuisine but don't have access to a grill. The kebabs are made with ground beef or lamb and flavored with saffron and spices. They are then cooked in a pan and served with fragrant saffron rice. It's a delicious and easy meal that the whole family will love.
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Kabab Koobeideh with Saffron Rice ~ Persian Seekh Kabab
Main Ingredients: Mutton, Fat, Onion, Black Pepper, Turmeric Powder
Kabab Koobeideh, also known as Persian seekh kabab, is a popular street food in Iran. It's made with ground beef or lamb that is seasoned with onion, garlic, and spices, then grilled on skewers. It is traditionally served with saffron rice, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
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Saffron Rice
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Saffron, Hot Water, Water, Salt, Ghee
This simple yet delicious saffron rice recipe is perfect for those who want to add a touch of elegance to their meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It uses basmati rice, saffron, and a few key spices to create a flavorful and fragrant side dish that pairs well with any meat or vegetable dish.
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Dolmeh Felfel - Persian Stuffed Bell Peppers
Main Ingredients: Bell Pepper, Rice, Yellow Split Peas, Oil, Yellow
This unique dish combines the flavors of Persian cuisine with the popular stuffed bell peppers dish. The peppers are filled with a delicious blend of ground beef or lamb, rice, and spices, then cooked in a tomato and saffron sauce. It's a hearty and delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion.
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Persian Green beans pilaf
Main Ingredients: Basmati, Clarified Butter, Yellow Onions, Garlic Paste
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, this green beans pilaf is a great choice. It's made with basmati rice, green beans, and a blend of spices including saffron, cinnamon, and ginger. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal.
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Saffron Rice with Cranberries
Main Ingredients: Rice, Dried Cranberries, Onion, Turmeric, Saffron, Hot
This festive and colorful dish is a great option for the holiday season. The basmati rice is cooked with saffron, cinnamon, and cardamom, then topped with dried cranberries and pistachios. It's a beautiful and delicious side dish that is sure to impress your guests.
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Polow Zaferani ~ Saffron Rice
Main Ingredients: Rice, Canola Oil, Saffron, Salt
This fragrant saffron rice dish is a staple in Persian cuisine. It's made by cooking basmati rice with saffron and a touch of butter, resulting in a light and fluffy rice that is perfect for pairing with any meat or vegetable dish. It's a simple yet delicious option that is sure to become a family favorite.
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Khmeli Suneli Chicken With Saffron Rice
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Spice Blend, Rice, Olive Oil, Chicken
This unique dish combines Persian and Georgian flavors for a delicious and flavorful meal. The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices, then cooked with onions and tomatoes, and served with saffron rice. The result is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a special occasion.
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Persian Rice with Saffron and Asparagus
Main Ingredients: Rice, Bay Leaves, Vegetable Oil, Onions, Garlic
This elegant rice dish is perfect for spring and summer, when asparagus is in season. The basmati rice is cooked with saffron, butter, and asparagus, giving it a beautiful green hue. It's a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for pairing with grilled meats or fish.
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Zereshk Polo Morgh - Persian Barberry Rice with Chicken
Main Ingredients: Saffron, Ice Cubes, Oil, Turmeric, Salt, Pepper, Tomato
This dish is a popular and beloved classic in Persian cuisine. The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices, then cooked with onions and tomatoes, and served with basmati rice flavored with saffron and barberries. It's a hearty and delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
Saffron
Saffron is the star ingredient in this dish and gives it its signature beautiful golden color and distinct flavor. Make sure to use high-quality saffron for the best results.
Rice
The type of rice used in this recipe is crucial. Basmati rice is the preferred choice for its long grains and ability to absorb flavors well.
Nuts and Dried Fruits
The jeweled aspect of this dish comes from the addition of pistachios, almonds, and cranberries. These add a delightful crunch and burst of sweetness to the dish.
Spices
A blend of spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, and cumin, give this dish its distinct flavor and aroma.
Butter
Butter is used to fry the nuts and spices and adds a rich and buttery flavor to the rice.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth
For added depth of flavor, use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water to cook the rice.
Instructions:
Step 1: Soak the Saffron
To get the most out of your saffron, soak a pinch of it in warm water for about 15 minutes, until the water turns a deep golden color.
Step 2: Rinse and Soak the Rice
Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Fry the Nuts and Spices
In a large pot, melt butter and fry the nuts and spices until fragrant. This will infuse the butter with all the delicious flavors.
Step 4: Add the Rice
Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot with the nuts and spices. Stir well to coat the rice with the butter and spices.
Step 5: Add Broth and Saffron
Pour in the broth and the soaked saffron, along with the water it was soaked in. Give it a gentle stir and let it come to a boil.
Step 6: Cook and Steam
Once the liquid comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the rice cook for about 20 minutes, until the liquid is fully absorbed.
Step 7: Add the Jewels
Once the rice is fully cooked, add in the pistachios, almonds, and cranberries. Give it a gentle stir to incorporate the jewels into the rice.
Step 8: Steam Again
Cover the pot with a clean kitchen towel and put the lid back on. Let the rice steam for an additional 10 minutes. This will help the flavors to blend and the rice to become fluffy.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving dish. The vibrant colors and delicious aroma of the Persian saffron rice will surely impress your guests. Serve it as a main dish or as a side dish to your favorite Persian or Middle Eastern dishes.
With this recipe, you can easily recreate the flavors and aromas of traditional Persian saffron rice in your own kitchen. So give it a try and experience the taste of Iran's rich culinary heritage.
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