17 Easy Saffron Rice Recipe Indian Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Mar 29, 2024
Saffron is a popular and expensive spice used in Indian cuisine, known for its distinct flavor and vibrant color. It adds a touch of luxury to any dish, making it perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to impress your dinner guests. One of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy saffron is by preparing saffron rice. This article will guide you through a simple yet authentic recipe for saffron rice that will transport your taste buds to the streets of India. Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering bowl of easy saffron rice that will leave you craving for more.
Main Ingredients: Jasmine Rice, Unsalted Butter, Saffron, Ground
Kheer, also known as Indian rice pudding, is a popular dessert in India. It is made by slow cooking rice, milk, and sugar until it forms a thick and creamy consistency. It is typically flavored with cardamom, saffron, and nuts, giving it a rich and indulgent taste. Kheer is often served during special occasions and festivals, making it an integral part of Indian cuisine.
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Phirni (Indian Rice Pudding)
Main Ingredients: Rice, Water, Full Cream Milk, Sugar, Cardamom Powder
Phirni is a variation of kheer, where ground rice is used instead of whole rice. This gives it a smoother and creamier texture. It is also flavored with cardamom and saffron, but sometimes also includes rose water for a fragrant twist. Phirni is usually served chilled and is a perfect dessert for hot summer days.
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Indian Salmon Curry with Saffron Rice
Main Ingredients: Salmon Steaks, Mustard Seeds, Fenugreek Seeds, Curry
If you're looking for a savory dish to pair with your kheer or phirni, Indian salmon curry with saffron rice is a must-try. The tender salmon is cooked in a flavorful blend of spices, coconut milk, and tomatoes, creating a rich and creamy curry. The saffron rice, with its golden color and delicate aroma, is the perfect accompaniment to this dish.
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Saffron Rice
Main Ingredients: Ghee, Onion, Cloves, Cardamom Pods, Peppercorns
Saffron rice, also known as "kesar chawal" in Hindi, is a popular side dish in Indian cuisine. It is made by cooking basmati rice with saffron threads, giving it a beautiful yellow color and a subtle floral flavor. Saffron rice is often served with curries and biryanis, but it can also be enjoyed on its own.
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Authentic Indian Food - Chicken Biryani
Main Ingredients: Rice, Water, Saffron, Salt, Chicken Breasts, Olive Oil
Biryani is a beloved dish in India, and there are many variations of it throughout the country. Chicken biryani is one of the most popular and is made by layering marinated chicken, fragrant rice, and spices in a pot and cooking it until the flavors have melded together. This dish is a staple during celebrations and special occasions, and each region in India has its own unique take on it.
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Indian Rice Pudding (Kerala Payasam)
Main Ingredients: Rice, Full Fat Milk, Coconut Milk, Sugar, Cardamom
Kerala payasam is a traditional dessert from the South Indian state of Kerala. It is made with rice, milk, jaggery (unrefined cane sugar), and coconut milk, giving it a rich and creamy texture. It is flavored with cardamom and sometimes includes cashews and raisins for added texture and sweetness. Kerala payasam is often served during festivals and weddings.
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Creamy Cashew Indian Butter Paneer...with Fried Paneer!
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Paneer Cheese, Coconut Milk, Roasted
Paneer butter masala, also known as butter paneer, is a popular vegetarian dish in India. It is made by cooking cubes of paneer (a type of fresh cheese) in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. The dish is flavored with a blend of spices, including garam masala, and is often finished with a touch of cream for added richness. Fried paneer is sometimes added to the dish for a crunchy texture.
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Best Ever Vegetable Biryani | Diwali Special Biryani
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Onion, Ginger Paste, Garlic Paste, Green
Vegetable biryani is a delicious and colorful dish that is perfect for vegetarians and vegans. It is made by layering a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, peas, and potatoes, with fragrant rice and spices. This dish is often served during Diwali, the festival of lights, as it is a symbol of abundance and prosperity.
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Slow Cooker Chicken Biryani
Main Ingredients: Rice, Salt, Milk, Saffron, Red Onion, Oil, Tomato
For those who want to enjoy the flavors of biryani without spending hours in the kitchen, slow cooker chicken biryani is the perfect solution. This dish is made by cooking marinated chicken, rice, and spices in a slow cooker until it is tender and flavorful. It is an easy and convenient way to enjoy this classic Indian dish.
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Chicken Biryani Restaurant Style
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Water, Chicken Stock, Green Cardamom
If you want to recreate the flavors of your favorite Indian restaurant at home, try making chicken biryani restaurant style. This dish is made by cooking marinated chicken and rice separately and then layering them with fried onions, herbs, and spices. The result is a fragrant and flavorful biryani that will have you coming back for more.
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Saffron Rice (Instant Pot)
Main Ingredients: Ghee, Cumin Seeds, Green Cardamom, Cashews, Onion
For those who own an Instant Pot, saffron rice can be easily made with this handy kitchen appliance. The rice, saffron, and water are added to the Instant Pot and cooked until the rice is tender and infused with the flavor and color of saffron. This dish is perfect for when you want to add a touch of elegance to your meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
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Instant Pot Chicken Biryani
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Basmati Rice, Water, Onions, Ghee, Salt
Instant Pot chicken biryani is another convenient and delicious way to make this classic Indian dish. The marinated chicken, rice, and spices are added to the Instant Pot and cooked until the chicken is tender and the rice is perfectly fluffy. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the fuss.
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Cashew Nuts, Mint Leaves, Turmeric
Saffron rice, also known as saffron pulao or pulav, is a versatile dish that can be customized with various ingredients. Some popular variations include adding vegetables, nuts, and dried fruits to the rice. This dish is perfect for potlucks and gatherings, as it is easy to make in large batches and is always a crowd-pleaser.
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Spiced Indian Curry with Garnish
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Saffron, Lime, Chicken Breast, Curry
Indian curries are known for their complex blend of spices that create a burst of flavor in every bite. This spiced Indian curry is no exception, made with a combination of ginger, garlic, cumin, coriander, and other spices. It can be made with your choice of protein, such as chicken, lamb, or vegetables, and is garnished with fresh herbs for added freshness and color.
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Summer Tomato Indian Pilaf
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Tomatoes, Saffron, Butter, Olive Oil
Indian pilaf, also known as "pulao" or "pulav," is a rice dish that is often served as a main course. This summer tomato Indian pilaf is made with fragrant basmati rice, fresh tomatoes, and a blend of spices. It is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for hot summer days.
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Indian Rice Pudding (Kheer)
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Dixie Crystals Granulated Sugar, Butter
If you're looking for a traditional and indulgent dessert, Indian rice pudding, or kheer, is the perfect choice. It is made with slow-cooked rice, milk, and sugar, and is flavored with cardamom, saffron, and nuts. This creamy and sweet dessert is a staple in Indian households and is enjoyed throughout the year.
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Instant Pot Kheer (Indian Rice Pudding)
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Water, Full Fat Coconut Milk, Sugar
For a quicker and easier version of kheer, try making it in your Instant Pot. This method involves cooking the rice, milk, and sugar together until it forms a thick and creamy pudding. The Instant Pot also infuses the kheer with the flavors of cardamom and saffron, making it just as delicious as the traditional slow-cooked version.
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Indian Dessert Sakhar bhat / Kesar bhat
Main Ingredients: Basmati, Ghee, Sugar, Saffron, Nuts, Raisins, Water
Sakhar bhat, also known as kesar bhat, is a traditional Indian dessert that is often served during festivals and special occasions. It is made with cooked rice, sugar, and saffron and is often topped with nuts and raisins for added texture and sweetness. This dessert is rich and indulgent, making it a perfect way to end a meal.
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Paneer Biryani – Indian Aromatic Layered Rice
Main Ingredients: Paneer, Green Bell Peppers, Greek Yoghurt, Ginger
Paneer biryani is a vegetarian version of the popular Indian dish biryani. It is made by layering fragrant rice, paneer, and vegetables with a blend of spices. The result is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
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Instant Pot Kheer | Indian Rice Pudding
Main Ingredients: Basmati Rice, Milk, Sugar, Ghee, Chopped Nuts, Raisins
Another quick and easy way to make kheer is in your Instant Pot. This method involves cooking the rice, milk, and sugar together until it forms a thick and creamy pudding. The Instant Pot also infuses the kheer with the flavors of cardamom and saffron, making it just as delicious as the traditional slow-cooked version.
Ingredients:
1. Rice
The main ingredient for saffron rice is, of course, rice. Basmati rice is the preferred variety for this recipe, as it has a long and slender grain that cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors well. Rinse the rice thoroughly with cold water and soak it for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
2. Saffron
Saffron is the star of this dish, and it is essential to use high-quality saffron for the best results. Soak a pinch of saffron in 2 tablespoons of warm milk or water for 10-15 minutes to release its flavor and color.
3. Spices
To give the rice a warm and earthy flavor, we will need a few basic spices like cumin seeds, whole cloves, and cardamom pods. These spices are commonly used in Indian cooking and can be found in most grocery stores.
4. Vegetables
Though saffron rice can be enjoyed on its own, adding some vegetables will make it a more well-rounded and nutritious meal. You can use any vegetables of your choice, such as carrots, peas, potatoes, or bell peppers.
5. Ghee
Ghee is a type of clarified butter commonly used in Indian cuisine. It adds a rich and nutty flavor to the dish, but you can also use regular butter if ghee is not available.
Method:
1. Prepare the rice
In a pot, add 1 cup of soaked and drained basmati rice and 1 and a half cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside.
2. Temper the spices
In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee and add cumin seeds, whole cloves, and cardamom pods. Let them sizzle for a few seconds, then add the vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add saffron
Pour the saffron mixture over the vegetables and stir well. Let it cook for another minute, then add the cooked rice to the pan. Mix everything together gently, making sure the rice is evenly coated with the saffron and spices.
4. Serve and enjoy
Transfer the saffron rice to a serving dish and garnish with some chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite.
Conclusion
Saffron rice is a simple yet luxurious dish that is sure to impress. The vibrant yellow color, aromatic blend of spices, and delicate saffron flavor make it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. This easy saffron rice recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their meals. So why wait? Gather the ingredients and give it a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
