Photo of Saffron rice by WW

Saffron rice

3
Points®
Total Time
43 min
Prep
10 min
Cook
28 min
Serves
8
Difficulty
Easy
Saffron gives this rice its lovely yellow color. It is a very unique Indian spice that has a very subtle flavor. It comes in threads, so crushing them is the best way to get the correct measurement. Although it's a little pricey, it is often sold in very small amounts and a little goes a very long way. The quick saute of the onions and rice gives the rice a head-start on cooking and creates a nutty flavor, making for a richer taste in the end. Contrast the gorgeous rice with a hint of green at the end. Cilantro is called for here but green onions or parsley also do well. Pair this rice with some grilled chicken breasts or pork tenderloin and a side of your favorite wilted leafy green vegetable.

Ingredients

Saffron

½ tsp, threads, crumbled

Water

2 Tbsp, boiling

Vegetable oil

1 Tbsp

Uncooked onion

1 small, yellow, minced

Uncooked white rice

1 cup(s), long-grained

Reduced sodium chicken broth

2 cup(s), hot

Table salt

¾ tsp

Cilantro

¼ cup(s), chopped fresh

Instructions

  1. Steep saffron in boiling water; set aside.
  2. Rinse and drain rice.
  3. Warm oil in a large, heavy saucepan over medium-high heat. When oil shimmers, add onion; cook, stirring frequently, until softened, 2-3 minutes. Add rice; cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, 2-3 minutes.
  4. Stir in broth, reserved saffron water and salt; cover pan, reduce heat to low and cook until liquid is absorbed, 18-20 minutes. Remove pan from heat and let stand, covered, 5 minutes; fluff with a fork and serve.
  5. Serving size: 1/2 cup