Easy Saffron Rice Recipe
Skip those yellow rice packets! Learn how to make this easy saffron rice recipe with just a few simple ingredients and steps. This Spanish rice is a beautiful, vibrant side dish that works with just about anything. Try pairing it with this simple Spanish chicken or lamb kofta for a Mediterranean inspired meal. Makes 6 servings.
Why you’ll love this 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 have to try these Italian style green beans , and this roasted vegetable pasta salad and this chicken and chorizo risotto.
Searching for more rice recipes? easy coconut rice / ham fried rice / wild rice pilaf / pumpkin risotto with crispy bacon and sage / Moroccan couscous
Ingredients:
Making changes to a recipe can result in recipe failure. Any substitutions listed below are simple changes that I believe will work in this recipe, but results are not guaranteed.
- 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.
The following is a detailed overview of the recipe steps with added tips and tricks for recipe success. For a simplified and printable version, including ingredient amounts and more formal instructions, see the recipe card below.
How to make this saffron rice recipe
Bring rice to a boil. Place all the ingredients in a large saucepan. Cover and bring the pot to boil over high heat.
Simmer, then steam. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it cook at a simmer for about 10 minutes. If you have a glass lid, you should be able to see small holes in the rice.
Next, remove it from the heat, but keep it covered for at least 10 more minutes, or until the remaining liquid has been absorbed. Try your best not to check it for the full time.
Serve. Once the liquid is fully absorbed, fluff it with a fork before serving.
Frequently asked questions
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
- Place ingredients in a large saucepan. Cover and heat until boiling.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and continue to cook until rice has absorbed the water.
- After about 10 minutes, when small holes form in the rice, remove from heat and let the rice continue to absorb the remaining liquid, about 5 – 10 minutes.
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Thank you so much for the Recipe, this is really helpful. Keep the good work going.