Garlic-Almond-Sherry Rice with Saffron
This aromatic and flavorful garlic-almond-sherry rice with saffron is a delightful creation straight from EdsGirl’s kitchen. The golden-hued rice, delicately infused with saffron, is seasoned with the rich flavors of garlic, sherry, and a hint of almond extract. Perfect as a side dish or as part of a light vegetarian, seafood, or chicken entrée, this rice brings a unique twist to your meal. Its easy preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights while being special enough for entertaining.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes/Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rice | ½ cup | Use your preferred variety (basmati or jasmine works well) |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For sautéing the garlic |
| Water | 1 cup | For cooking the rice |
| Sherry wine | 3 tbsp | Adds a deep, rich flavor |
| Saffron | ½ tsp | A pinch is enough to infuse the rice with color and flavor |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Almond extract | ¼ tsp | Optional, for a subtle almond note |
| Toasted almond slivers or slices | For garnish | Optional, for added texture and flavor |
| Nutritional Information (Per Serving) | |
|---|---|
| Calories | 273.6 kcal |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 6.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 40.9 g |
| Fiber | 0.8 g |
| Sugar | 0.5 g |
| Protein | 3.5 g |
Instructions
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Sauté the Garlic:
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2–3 minutes until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter if overcooked.
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Add the Rice:
- Stir in the rice with the garlic, coating it well in the oil. Sauté the rice for about 3 minutes to lightly toast it. This step helps enhance the texture of the rice and brings out its nutty flavor.
-
Add Water and Sherry:
- In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the water and sherry wine. Pour this mixture into the saucepan with the garlic and rice, stirring to combine.
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Infuse with Saffron and Almond:
- Add the almond extract for a light almond essence and the saffron to the saucepan. The saffron will infuse the rice with a beautiful golden color and a delicate flavor. Stir gently to ensure everything is well-mixed.
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Cook the Rice:
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly with a lid, and let the rice cook undisturbed for about 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
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Season with Salt:
- Once the rice is fully cooked, remove the lid and season with salt to taste. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and distribute the flavors evenly.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- For an extra touch of flavor and texture, garnish the rice with toasted almond slivers or slices before serving. The almonds add a lovely crunch that complements the soft, fluffy rice.
Tips for Success:
- Saffron Quality: Use high-quality saffron threads for the best flavor and color. You can bloom the saffron in warm water or stock before adding it to the rice for a more intense infusion.
- Almond Extract: If you’re not a fan of almond extract, feel free to omit it or replace it with a small amount of ground almonds for a more subtle taste.
- Rice Variety: Basmati or jasmine rice works beautifully in this recipe, but feel free to experiment with different types of rice depending on your preference.
Pairing Suggestions:
This saffron-infused rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It’s especially suited for light vegetarian meals, seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or salmon, or roasted chicken. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled Lemon-Garlic Shrimp: The citrus and garlic in the shrimp complement the savory rice perfectly.
- Roasted Chicken with Herbs: Serve this rice alongside roasted chicken seasoned with thyme, rosemary, and garlic for a complete meal.
- Vegetarian Stir-Fry: A colorful vegetable stir-fry with peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms makes a vibrant pairing with the saffron rice.
Recipe Keywords:
- Low Protein
- Vegan
- Low Cholesterol
- Healthy
- Under 60 Minutes
- Easy
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Can I make this rice ahead of time?
- Yes, this rice can be made ahead and reheated. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to help rehydrate the rice.
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What can I use if I don’t have saffron?
- Saffron can be expensive and may not always be on hand. You can substitute it with turmeric for a similar color, although the flavor will be slightly different. A pinch of paprika can also add a mild warmth and color to the dish.
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Is the almond extract necessary?
- The almond extract adds a subtle nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. However, it is entirely optional. If you prefer, you can skip it or replace it with ground almonds for a more natural almond flavor.
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Can I add vegetables to this rice?
- Absolutely! Adding vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or diced carrots can turn this into a more substantial dish. Simply sauté the vegetables along with the garlic or stir them into the rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
This garlic-almond-sherry rice with saffron is a beautifully simple yet flavorful side dish that’s perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any meal. Its unique combination of flavors will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds! Whether you’re serving it with a light vegetarian dish or pairing it with seafood or chicken, this rice is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!
