Taste of Fall: Saffron-Infused Biryan

May 24, 2023May 24, 20230 0
Taste of Fall: Saffron-Infused Biryan
in Rice

Prep

30 min

Cook

45 min

Ready In

1 hr 15 min

Level

Difficult

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

5 -6 saffron strands
1 pinch sugar
2 tablespoons hot water
2 medium onions , chopped
2 tablespoons mixed spice
2 lbs ground meat ( optional ) or 1 1/2 cups quinoa , cooked
3 cups basmati rice
4 cups water
5 tablespoons biryani spice mix
1 head cauliflower
1 tablespoon fresh ginger , minced
3 -4 garlic cloves , smashed
1 cup green beans
2 tomatoes
3 large carrots
3 zucchini
1/2 cup cashews or 1/2 cup almonds
1/3 cup frozen peas
1/4 cup cilantro

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
6-8
Calories
495
Sugar
9g
Fat
17g
Biryani is a popular South Asian rice dish that is typically made with a combination of spiced rice and meat or vegetables. This version of biryani adds a unique fall twist by using saffron, one of the world's most expensive spices. Saffron gives the dish its signature golden color and a distinct aroma. This biryani is also loaded with fresh fall veggies like cauliflower, carrots, zucchini, and green beans, providing a nice balance of flavors and textures that will please any palate. This recipe is versatile and could be made with either ground meat or protein-rich quinoa, making it suitable for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Overall, this savory and aromatic dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a staple for a family meal.

Instructions

1.Rinse basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2.Soak the saffron strands in 2 tablespoons of hot water. Add a pinch of sugar and set aside.
3.Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent.
4.Add the mixed spice and sauté for another 2 minutes.
5.Add the ground meat (if using) and cook until browned.
6.Add the cooked quinoa (if using) and mix well with the meat.
7.Add the biryani spice mix and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
8.Add the cauliflower florets, minced ginger, and smashed garlic cloves. Stir well.
9.Add the green beans, diced tomatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped zucchini. Mix well.
10.Add the soaked saffron strands along with the water to the pot.
11.Add the rinsed rice and 4 cups of water to the pot. Mix everything together.
12.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
13.Let the biryani simmer for about 20-25 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
14.Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.
15.Fluff the biryani with a fork, then garnish with the cashews or almonds, thawed peas, and cilantro leaves.

PROS

This saffron-infused biryani is a warm and flavorful rice dish that can be enjoyed on a cool fall evening.

The combination of aromatic herbs and spices, like fresh ginger and mixed biryani spice mix, makes this dish both delicious and satisfying.

In addition, this recipe can be easily adjusted to fit dietary preferences and restrictions by using either ground meat or quinoa.

CONS

This biryani can take a while to prepare, with a total cooking time exceeding 1 hour.

Additionally, the inclusion of fried cashews or almonds can make this dish high in fat and calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This saffron-infused biryani is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, like vitamin C and potassium.
Additionally, it contains fiber and protein whether made with ground meat or quinoa.
The presence of herbs and spices, like ginger and biryani spice mix, has been linked to supporting healthy digestion and reducing inflammation.

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