Saffron Rice Recipe

Saffron rice is basmati rice cooked with saffron threads, butter, and a handful of warm spices. The saffron turns the rice a deep golden colour and gives it a floral, slightly honeyed aroma that you don't get from any other ingredient. It looks impressive on the table but it's straightforward to make at home.

It works as a side dish for almost any curry. We love it with Butter Chicken, Chicken Tikka Masala, and Lamb Rogan Josh. If you want plain saffron rice without the spices, just leave out the cumin and cardamom.

Ingredients

• 1 cup high-quality aged basmati rice
• A generous pinch of saffron threads (about 1/4 teaspoon)
• 1.5 cups water for cooking
• 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Chopped fresh coriander or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Bloom saffron: Place saffron threads in a small bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of hot water (80°C/175°F). Let steep for 15-20 minutes until the water turns deep orange.
2. Prepare rice: Rinse basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes. Drain well.
3. Start base: In a heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft and translucent, 5-6 minutes.
4. Add aromatics: Add garlic, cumin, and cardamom. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Toast rice: Add drained rice. Stir gently to coat with butter and spices. Toast for 2 minutes.
6. Add liquids: Pour in bloomed saffron with its water and 1.5 cups fresh water. Add salt and pepper.
7. Cook rice: Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce to the lowest heat setting, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
8. Steam: Remove from heat. Keep covered and let steam for 10 minutes.
9. Finish: Fluff gently with a fork. Rest uncovered for 5 minutes before serving.

What to serve with saffron rice

Saffron rice pairs well with rich, saucy curries where the golden rice can soak up the sauce. These are some of our favourites:

• Butter Chicken and our Butter Chicken Spice Mix
• Chicken Tikka Masala and our Chicken Tikka Masala Spice Mix
• Lamb Rogan Josh
• Vegetarian Korma for a meat-free option