SAFFRON RICE PILAF WITH RED PEPPERS & TOASTED ALMONDS

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Saffron Rice Pilaf With Red Peppers & Toasted Almonds image

I think I got this recipe from Fine Cooking Magazine--great read! This simple, tasty side dish reminds me a little of paella, and is so delish--it goes great with just about everything, but I particularly like it with salmon or my Recipe #241378.

Provided by Battle in Seattle

Categories     Long Grain Rice

Time 40m

Yield 6-8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 12

2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth (can substitute water, but won't be quite as good)
1/8 teaspoon saffron (about 20 threads or a "pinch")
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, small diced (1 1/4 cups)
1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and small diced (about one cup)
1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (I use Basmatti)
1 teaspoon kosher salt, more if needed
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, divided
1 large garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (can use half as much dry)

Steps:

  • On the stove top or in the microwave, heat the broth until hot. Add the saffron, cover, and let sit for 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, in a heavy-based 3-quart saucepan with a tight lid, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft but not browned, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the rice, salt and cayenne, and stir well to coat each grain with oil. Toast for a full five minutes, stirring regularly to keep the grains separated and to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pan (the rice may turn opaque before 5 minutes is up, but keep going). Reduce the heat to low if there are any signs of scorching. Stir in 2 tablespoons of parsley and the garlic.
  • Add the saffron broth, stir once, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 18 minutes. Remove from the heat, and let the pilaf sit, still covered, for five minutes.
  • Once the pilaf has rested, remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Using the fork, gently fold in the almonds, the remaining parsley, and the oregano. Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed.
  • P.S. You might be tempted to leave out the saffron because it's expensive, but DON'T DO IT! It's worth every penny, and one jar goes a long way. If you have a Trader Joe's in your area, you can pick up a jar for about three to four bucks. If you don't have a TJ's, I'm sorry for you.

Ibidun Sangodare
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Meh.


Amir abdur Rahman
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Overall, this was a great recipe. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish.


sangay bumthap
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I would have liked the recipe to include more detailed instructions for toasting the almonds.


Erica Habada
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This recipe is a keeper! I'll definitely be making it again.


Tanayah
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I'm a picky eater, but I really enjoyed this dish. The flavors were subtle and well-balanced.


Jackhlin K
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I made this for a dinner party and it was a hit! Everyone loved the unique flavor and the beautiful presentation.


Sudais khane
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I'm not a huge fan of saffron, but I thought this recipe was still delicious. The other flavors really balanced it out.


SDK HASIB
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I love how easy this recipe was to follow. Even as a beginner cook, I was able to make this dish with ease.


Haven Cantrell
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I followed the recipe exactly, and the results were perfect. The rice was fluffy and cooked evenly, the red peppers added a nice pop of color and flavor, and the toasted almonds gave the dish a satisfying crunch.


Farhan Malkani Entertainment Channel
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This saffron rice pilaf was a delightful and flavorful side dish. The combination of fragrant saffron, sweet red peppers, and crunchy toasted almonds created a sensory experience that was both comforting and exciting.