Ingredients:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 tsp saffron threads
- 2 tbsp warm milk
- 2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 green cardamom pods
- 4-5 whole cloves
- Salt to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Source: www.whiskaffair.com
Instructions:
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
- In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in warm milk and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves to the pan. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add the drained rice to the pan and stir well to coat the grains with the ghee and spices.
- Pour in the water and add salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the water is absorbed.
- Remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. This will allow the rice to steam and fluff up.
- Drizzle the saffron-infused milk over the cooked rice and gently mix it in to create a beautiful golden hue.
- Remove the whole spices (cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves) from the rice.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Serve the aromatic Saffron Rice as a delightful side dish to complement your favorite Indian curries or enjoy it as a standalone flavorful meal.
