Description
Dazzling in both appearance and flavor, Persian Jeweled Rice is a festive, elegant dish that combines the subtle fragrance of saffron basmati rice with the sweet chew of dried fruits and the crunch of nuts. A traditional centerpiece at Persian weddings and celebrations, this colorful rice is as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether you’re searching for a show-stopping side or a stunning vegetarian main, this is the perfect choice for easy dinner parties, exotic food ideas, or refined yet easy recipes for special occasions. This quick and aromatic rice dish also fits many dietary preferences, making it an excellent addition to your healthy snack or dinner ideas list.
Ingredients
2 cups long-grain basmati rice
1/2 cup barberries or dried cranberries
1/2 cup slivered almonds
1/2 cup pistachios, roughly chopped
1/2 cup dried apricots, finely chopped
1/4 cup golden raisins
1 medium carrot, julienned (optional)
1 small onion, finely sliced (optional)
2 tablespoons orange zest (fresh or candied peel)
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, ground and steeped in 2 tbsp hot water
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons butter or ghee
1/4 cup neutral oil
Salt, to taste
Water, as needed for parboiling and steaming
Instructions
1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in salted water for 30–60 minutes.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the soaked rice. Boil for 5–6 minutes until al dente, then drain.
3. Toast the almonds and pistachios in a dry pan until fragrant, then remove and set aside.
4. In the same pan, melt 1 tbsp butter and sauté the apricots, raisins, and orange zest for 1–2 minutes. Remove and reserve.
5. Add the remaining butter to the pan, then cook the barberries or cranberries with sugar for 2 minutes. Set aside.
6. If making tahdig, coat the bottom of a nonstick pot with oil and layer with thin potato slices or bread.
7. Begin layering: rice, then some of the nuts and fruits. Repeat until everything is used, reserving some for garnish.
8. Drizzle the saffron water over the top. Make steam holes in the rice with a spoon handle.
9. Cover the pot with a clean kitchen towel under the lid and steam on low for 30–40 minutes.
10. Fluff gently with a fork, transfer to a serving platter, and garnish with reserved toppings. Serve warm.
Notes
Use a clean kitchen towel under the lid to trap moisture and ensure even steaming.
Always soak the rice beforehand for the fluffiest results.
Don’t skip the saffron—it gives the rice its signature color and perfume.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: persian jeweled rice, wedding rice, easy rice dish, middle eastern rice, vegetarian rice, festive rice, saffron rice, easy dinner, colorful rice recipe, basmati