Description
Persian Jeweled Rice is a festive, saffron-infused basmati rice dish loaded with dried fruits, nuts, and citrus zest. This colorful Middle Eastern rice recipe makes an unforgettable side or main dish for holidays, weddings, or special gatherings. Discover how to make Jeweled Rice with authentic ingredients and perfect texture.
Ingredients
2 cups basmati rice
1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
2 tablespoons hot water (for saffron)
1 medium carrot, julienned
1/4 cup candied orange peel (or blanched fresh peel)
1/4 cup dried barberries (or cranberries)
1/4 cup golden raisins
1/4 cup slivered almonds
1/4 cup chopped pistachios
2 tablespoons unsalted butter or ghee
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
Instructions
1. Soak the basmati rice in salted water for 30 minutes, then drain.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil with salt. Add rice and cook until just al dente, about 6-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Grind the saffron and steep it in 2 tablespoons of hot water. Let sit to bloom.
4. In a pan, melt butter or ghee. Sauté carrots, orange peel, barberries, and raisins for a few minutes. Add sugar to lightly candy the mixture. Remove and set aside.
5. Toast the slivered almonds and pistachios in a dry skillet until lightly golden.
6. In a large non-stick pot, layer some rice, then some saffron water, then some of the jeweled mixture. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with rice on top.
7. Cover the pot with a towel under the lid to trap steam. Cook on low heat for 30 minutes.
8. Fluff the rice gently before serving, and garnish with extra jewels and nuts on top.
Notes
This dish is traditionally made for celebrations and can be prepped ahead.
Barberries can be substituted with dried cranberries if unavailable.
Use a nonstick or heavy-bottomed pot to avoid burning the bottom layer.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop steaming
- Cuisine: Persian / Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 generous cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg