Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice ( NO other substitution )
2 cups water
1/3 teaspoon saffron threads or 1/3 teaspoon equivalent saffron
1 cinnamon sticks
6 whole cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup small yellow onion , diced ( optional )
1/4 1/4 cup honey , raw ( if using honey or maple sugar , reduce water by 2 Tablespoons ) or 1/4 cup unbleached cane sugar
1 teaspoon cardamom seeds , crushed or 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
2 tablespoons ghee or 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons pistachios or 3 tablespoons slivered almonds
3 tablespoons raisins or 3 tablespoons currants
2 tablespoons toasted nuts , for garnishing
Indian Sweet Saffron Rice With Raisins and Pistachios is a classic Indian rice dish that is flavored with aromatic spices and sweetened with honey or sugar. It is a popular side dish for many Indian meals and can also be served as a snack or dessert. This recipe is easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients. The addition of saffron makes this rice dish extra special and gives it a unique flavor and color. The raisins and pistachios add sweetness and crunch to the dish, making it a satisfying and delicious treat.

Instructions

1.Rinse the basmati rice in cold water several times and drain well.
2.In a small bowl, dissolve the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water and set aside.
3.In a large pot, heat the ghee or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and diced onion (if using) and fry for a few minutes until fragrant.
4.Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat in the spiced oil. Then add 2 cups of water along with the salt and honey or sugar.
5.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
6.Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed and the rice is fluffy and tender.
7.Remove the pot from the heat and let stand for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork.
8.Add the raisins or currants and the chopped pistachios or slivered almonds. Stir well to combine, then sprinkle over the toasted nuts for garnish.

PROS

This rice dish is a delicious and fragrant way to enjoy a sweet side dish or snack.

It can be easily customized to your liking with different nuts and dried fruits.

The saffron in the recipe adds a unique flavor and health benefits.

CONS

The addition of honey or sugar can make this dish more calorie-dense and sugary.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Saffron is a spice that has been linked to several health benefits, including mood improvement and reduced PMS symptoms.
Adding nuts and dried fruit to the recipe can provide additional vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the dish.

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