Why you’ll love this easy saffron rice recipe
You might not believe this, but it wasn’t that long ago that I was making boil-in-a-bag rice because I thought it would be too hard to make my own rice. I know. It’s scary to think I lived like that.
But, eventually, I learn how to make plain white rice, and eventually coconut rice.
Even though I’m fully confident in my rice making skills, I decided against a one-pot rice meal when I made my Spanish chicken recipe. It was nothing against the rice, I just wanted to make things as uncomplicated as possible.
I also knew I didn’t want to completely miss out on that yellow, saffron rice that is so common in Spanish cuisine. So I decided to just make it separately instead, and I’m so happy I did.
→ If you like this recipe, you should try these: chicken and chorizo risotto / ham fried rice / wild rice pilaf / Moroccan couscous
Ingredient notes:
- Saffron threads – Saffron threads are the dried bits from a crocus flower and are known for their bright color and subtle flavor. Since saffron is handpicked, it’s one of the pricier spices out there, but you don’t need much – a little goes a long way, so even a tiny jar will last you a while.
- Turmeric – The turmeric amps up the vibrant yellow color of the rice and adds another layer of flavor.
- Long grain rice – We are using a basic long grain white rice for this dish, but you can use basmati or jasmine rice if you have it.
Making changes to a recipe can result in recipe failure. Any substitutions listed are simple changes that I believe will work in this recipe, but results are not guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
This rice has a very subtle flavor and smell. It’s sort of a sweet and almost floral like smell that can be hard to describe. Once you smell it though, you’ll understand this somewhat awkward explanation, let me know in the comments what you think it smells like.
Fun fact, the white rice gets its yellow color from the turmeric and the saffron used! You could say that this is a fun way to naturally dye your food.
Easy Saffron Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth, or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Instructions
- Bring rice to a boil. Place ingredients in a large saucepan. Cover and heat until boiling.
- Simmer. Once it's boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes. If you have a glass lid, you should be able to see small holes in the rice.
- Let it rest. Next, remove it from the heat, and allow the rice to rest for at least 10 more minutes. Keep the pot covered for the full 10 minutes to allow all the liquid to absorb.
- Serve. Fluff it with a fork before serving.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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Thank you so much for the Recipe, this is really helpful. Keep the good work going.