Irresistibly Delicious Persian Jeweled Rice for Every Occasion

This jeweled rice is bright, fast to assemble, and impressive on any table. It mixes scented basmati with dried fruit and crunchy nuts for a balanced dish that feels special without fuss. Prep the small components while the rice steams to save time. If you want a quick dessert idea while cooking, try a no bake raspberry pretzel pie that pairs nicely with savory mains.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe keeps the classic Persian style but simplifies steps so busy cooks can finish quickly. Soaking the basmati shortens cook time and helps grains stay separate and fluffy. Toasting the nuts and gently simmering fruit concentrates flavor without extra hands on time. Saffron soaked in warm water gives an authentic fragrant note with minimal effort. A touch of butter or ghee and a pinch of spices unites sweet and savory elements for a dish that looks gourmet but is easy to make. For a quick overview of the site and more fast recipes visit the Quick30Recipes welcome page.

Flavor and Texture

Saffron brings a floral aroma and warm color while orange zest adds brightness. Dried barberries or cranberries lend a sharp pop that contrasts the mellow sweetness of apricots and raisins. Toasted almonds and chopped pistachios add crunch and a nutty finish. The rice stays light and separate when rinsed and soaked, giving a pleasing tender chew. Cinnamon and cardamom leave a subtle warm spice that complements the fruits without overpowering them.

Ingredients

* 2 cups Basmati Rice (Rinsed and soaked)
* 4 cups Water
* 1 teaspoon Salt
* 2 tablespoons Butter or Ghee
* 1 teaspoon Saffron Threads (Soaked in warm water)
* 1/2 cup Dried Barberries (or Cranberries)
* 1/2 cup Dried Apricots (Sliced)
* 1/2 cup Golden Raisins
* 1/2 cup Slivered Almonds (Toasted)
* 1/2 cup Pistachios (Chopped)
* 1 teaspoon Orange Zest
* 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon Cardamom
* 1 tablespoon Sugar (for Barberries)

Step by Step Instructions

1. Drain soaked rice and bring water to a boil in a medium pot with salt.
2. Add rice to boiling water and cook uncovered until grains are al dente about 6 to 8 minutes.
3. Drain rice in a fine mesh sieve and set aside to steam off excess moisture.
4. Warm butter or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Add sliced apricots raisins and barberries with sugar and sauté briefly until plumped about 2 minutes.
6. Stir in orange zest cinnamon and cardamom and remove fruit mixture to a bowl.
7. In the same skillet toast slivered almonds and chopped pistachios until fragrant about 2 minutes then set aside.
8. Return rice to the pot and drizzle saffron water over the top then gently fold to distribute color without crushing grains.
9. Layer half of the rice in a serving dish then spread the fruit mixture and half the nuts over it.
10. Top with remaining rice and finish with the rest of the nuts for a jeweled look.
11. Cover and let rest five minutes so flavors meld then fluff gently and serve warm.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Use pre toasted nuts to skip a step and save a few minutes. Swap jarred orange zest for fresh if you are in a hurry but fresh adds the best lift. If barberries are unavailable use tart dried cranberries and balance sweetness with the tablespoon of sugar. Make the fruit mixture ahead and store it in the fridge to assemble rice quickly when guests arrive. A small pinch more saffron water will increase aroma if you want a stronger saffron profile.

Storage and Meal Prep

Store cooled rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of water in a covered pan or microwave to restore moisture. The fruit and nuts keep the dish interesting leftover so it makes a good side for weekly meal prep. Freeze in portions for longer storage but note texture is best within three months.

Short Closing Note

This jeweled rice gives you festive flavor with minimal fuss and fits weeknight or special occasion menus. Keep the components simple and assemble when ready to serve.

FAQ

Print