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Saffron and Dried Fruit Pilaf

This dish is a fragrant rice pilaf cooked with saffron, toasted almonds, and dried fruits, creating a vibrant, aromatic, and textured side or main course. The rice is simmered until tender, absorbing the colorful flavors and contrasting textures of sweetness and crunch, resulting in a visually appealing and flavorful dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain rice rinsed until water runs clear
  • 1 pinch saffron threads soaked in warm water
  • 1.5 cups chicken or vegetable broth hot
  • 1/4 cup dried apricots chopped
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or currants
  • 1/4 cup toasted almonds sliced or chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 0.5 teaspoon turmeric powder

Equipment

  • Saucepan with lid
  • Toasting pan

Method
 

  1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat each grain with the fat. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice starts to turn slightly translucent and smells nutty.
  3. Stir in the turmeric powder and soaked saffron (including the soaking water) to give the rice a bright golden hue and aromatic depth. Cook for another minute until the mixture is fragrant.
  4. Pour in the hot broth, stirring gently. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  5. While the rice cooks, toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside.
  6. Once the rice is cooked, gently fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. Fold in the chopped dried apricots and dried cranberries, then sprinkle with the toasted almonds for added crunch.
  7. Serve the rice warm, garnished with additional almonds or dried fruits if desired. Enjoy the colorful, aromatic blend of flavors and textures.

Notes

For extra richness, add a pat of butter at the end. Adjust the sweetness by more or fewer dried fruits as preferred.