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.

Kendrick Vaivela
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This is one of my favorite recipes. It's always a crowd-pleaser.


Tushabirane Stella
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I'm not a big fan of saffron, but I really enjoyed this dish. The flavors were very well-balanced.


mero monem
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This dish is perfect for a special occasion. It's elegant and delicious.


Michael Vals
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I found the recipe to be a bit bland. I would recommend adding more salt and pepper to taste.


Mmathapi Moloto
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This recipe is a keeper! I will definitely be making it again.


Mirkhan liskani
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I didn't have any saffron on hand, so I substituted turmeric. It still turned out great!


Keeyan Bezuidenhout
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The saffron rice pilaf was a bit too dry for my taste, but the flavors were spot on.


Roel Ramos (Mr.Ramos)
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This dish was easy to make and so delicious. I loved the combination of flavors and textures.


Noodleboy
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I've made this recipe several times and it's always a hit. The rice is fluffy and flavorful, and the red peppers and almonds add a nice touch of color and crunch.


Mano Butt
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This saffron rice pilaf was amazing! The flavors of the saffron, red peppers, and toasted almonds came together perfectly. I followed the recipe exactly and it turned out great.