How long can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, prepare the rice up to 1 day in advance; reheat gently before serving.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Basmati is recommended for its fragrance, but jasmine rice is an acceptable substitute.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan-friendly?

Simply omit the honey in the rosewater drizzle or replace it with agave syrup.

How can I enhance the flavor even more?

Add a pinch of cardamom or a splash of orange blossom water for additional fragrance.

Lebanese Saffron Rice with Rosewater Drizzle

Name: Lebanese Saffron Rice with Rosewater Drizzle
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Side Dish
Ingredients: Basmati rice; Water; Saffron threads; Olive oil; Salt; Rosewater; Honey; Lemon juice; Cinnamon stick; Whole cloves; Slivered almonds; Fresh parsley

Aromatic and Fragrant Rice Dish

A distinctive rice dish infused with saffron and topped with a delicate rosewater drizzle, capturing the essence of Lebanese flavors.

1 h
4
Easy

Ingredients

For the Saffron Rice

Basmati rice

1 ½ cups

Water

3 cups

Saffron threads

1 tsp, soaked in 2 tbsp warm water

Olive oil

2 tbsp

Salt

To taste

For the Rosewater Drizzle

Rosewater

2 tbsp

Honey

1 tbsp

Lemon juice

½ tsp

Additional Seasoning

Cinnamon stick

Whole cloves

For Garnishing

Slivered almonds

¼ cup, toasted

Fresh parsley

¼ cup, chopped

Preparation

Marinating the Saffron

Bloom Saffron

Soak the saffron threads in warm water for 10 minutes to bloom.

Release Color

Gently stir the mixture to help release the color.

Set Aside

Set aside until ready to use.

Preparing the Rice

Rinse Rice

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

💡 Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, preventing stickiness.

Heat Oil

In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Sauté Rice

Add rinsed rice, stirring to coat each grain in oil.

⚠ Important: Do not allow the rice to brown during sautéing.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Rice

Add water, bloomed saffron (and its liquid), cinnamon stick, cloves, and salt; bring to a boil.

Simmering

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender.

Preparing the Drizzle

Mix rosewater, honey, and lemon juice in a small bowl; set aside.

Plating & Serving