Persian Jeweled Rice with Barberries and Almonds
A Colorful Classic
This vibrant and aromatic rice dish is a tapestry of flavors and textures, featuring the sweetness of dried fruits and the crunch of nuts, perfect for festive occasions.
- 1 h 30 min
- 6
- Intermediate
Ingredients
For the Rice
For the Fruit and Nut Mix
For the Aromatic Oil
For the Saffron Water
Preparation
Preparing the Rice
Rinse the rice
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch for beautifully separated grains.
Soak the rice
Soak the rice in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain well.
Dissolve saffron
Dissolve saffron threads in 1/4 cup warm water; set aside.
Preparing the Fruit and Nut Mix
Toast nuts
Toast slivered almonds and pistachios in a dry skillet until golden brown; set aside.
Avoid over-toasting nuts as they can become bitter.
Sauté barberries
Lightly sauté barberries in a tablespoon of ghee until they plump up.
Soak dried fruits in water for 10 minutes to enhance their flavors before sautéing.
Mix fruits and nuts
Mix in raisins and chopped apricots; remove from heat.
Cooking Process
Cooking the Rice
Boil 3 cups of water, add soaked rice and salt; cook until tender but slightly firm.
Infusing the Oil
Heat ghee in a pan, sauté onions until golden, stirring in cinnamon and cardamom.
Mixing
Combine saffron water into cooked rice, gently fold in fruits and nuts.
Plating & Serving
Persian Jeweled Rice with Barberries and Almonds
Persian Jeweled Rice with Barberries and Almonds
Plating & Serving
Serve this vibrant rice on a large platter to showcase its brilliant colors and textures.