SAFFRON QUINOA WITH DRIED CHERRIES AND ALMONDS
Saffron rice is an indispensable accompaniment in Persian cuisine, and it tastes just as good made with fluffy quinoa. Crushing and steeping the saffron in hot water brings out its full flavor and color. If you have coconut oil on hand, the naturally sweet flavor pairs nicely with the cherries and almonds.
Provided by Louisa Shafia
Categories Side Passover Quinoa Spring Dried Fruit Cherry Saffron Almond Wheat/Gluten-Free Vegetarian Vegan
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Crush saffron, if using, with the handle of a wooden spoon (or crush between your fingers) in a small bowl until a powder forms. Add 1 Tbsp. hot water. Swirl gently; set aside to steep.
- Heat 1 Tbsp. oil in a large pot over medium-high. Add almonds, cinnamon, cayenne, and 1/4 tsp. salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until toasted and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer almonds to a small bowl; reserve oil in pot.
- Heat oil in pot over medium-high. Add onion and remaining 2 Tbsp. oil and 1 1/2 tsp. salt, reduce heat to medium, and cook until onion is light brown and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add quinoa and cook, tossing to coat, until fragrant and beginning to brown, 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in 4 cups water, cover pot, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer until quinoa is cooked and water is absorbed, 20-30 minutes. Remove from heat, sprinkle cherries over, cover, and let sit 10 minutes.
- Transfer 2 cups quinoa mixture to a medium bowl. Reserve 1/2 cup toasted almonds, then toss remaining almonds with remaining quinoa mixture and transfer to a platter. Toss quinoa in bowl with saffron water until coated, then garnish platter with saffron quinoa. Top with remaining toasted almonds.
- Do Ahead
- Quinoa, with cherries, can be cooked 3 days ahead. Transfer to a resealable container and chill. Reheat over low on stovetop or in a 300°F oven until warmed.
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Mudassir Ijaz
[email protected]This is one of my favorite quinoa recipes. It's always a hit with my family and friends.
Paige thomas
[email protected]I'm so glad I found this recipe. It's a keeper!
Odirah Okeafor
[email protected]I'm not usually a fan of quinoa, but this recipe has changed my mind. It's delicious!
Technical Sardar Ji
[email protected]This is a great recipe for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Gloria Veilleux
[email protected]I love the combination of flavors in this dish. It's the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Muna Mishra
[email protected]This dish is so easy to make and it's always a crowd-pleaser.
Betty Agaviezor
[email protected]I made this recipe for my family last night and it was a huge success! Everyone loved it.
Nko Stock
[email protected]This is a great recipe for a healthy and flavorful meal. I especially love the combination of saffron, dried cherries, and almonds.
Charles Manis
[email protected]I love this recipe! It's so easy to make and always turns out great. I've made it several times and it's always a hit with my family and friends.
Lubna Shaid
[email protected]This was a great recipe! I made it for a potluck and it was a big hit. Thanks for sharing.
gaontebale ramaeba
[email protected]This quinoa dish is delicious! I love the combination of saffron, dried cherries, and almonds. It's a perfect dish for a light lunch or dinner.
Troy Davis
[email protected]I'm not usually a fan of quinoa, but this recipe has changed my mind! The saffron adds a really nice flavor, and the dried cherries and almonds add a touch of sweetness and crunch. I will definitely be making this dish again.
Dj Jahid
[email protected]This is one of my go-to recipes when I'm looking for a healthy and flavorful meal. It's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. I love the combination of saffron, dried cherries, and almonds. It's the perfect balance of flavors.
Quiante Blassingame
[email protected]I made this quinoa dish for my family last night and it was a huge success! Everyone loved it. The saffron gave it a really nice flavor, and the dried cherries and almonds added a touch of sweetness and crunch. I will definitely be making this dish a
cash kent
[email protected]This recipe is a keeper! It's healthy, easy to make, and absolutely delicious. I especially love the combination of saffron, dried cherries, and almonds. It's a perfect dish for a light lunch or dinner.
Can Zoo
[email protected]I've tried many quinoa recipes, but this one is by far my favorite! The saffron adds a unique flavor that I haven't found in other recipes. I also love the addition of dried cherries and almonds. They add a nice pop of sweetness and crunch.
Tony James
[email protected]This saffron quinoa was a hit at my dinner party! It was simple to make and so delicious! The saffron added a lovely flavor, and the dried cherries and almonds added a nice touch of sweetness and crunch. I will definitely be making this dish again.