Saffron Pilaf Recipe: A Delightful North Indian Dish
Saffron Pilaf, known as केसर पिलाफ in Hindi, is an exquisite North Indian dish that combines the delicate flavors of saffron with aromatic basmati rice, creating a luxurious and comforting meal. This dish is perfect for special occasions or family dinners and pairs wonderfully with rich curries and lentils. The addition of saffron not only elevates the flavor but also adds a beautiful golden hue to the rice, making it visually appealing and a feast for the senses.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 2 cups |
| Basmati rice | 1.5 cups |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Saffron strands | ½ teaspoon |
| Warm milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | to taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1/4 of recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 210 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 0g |
| Sodium | 20mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 4
Cuisine and Course
- Cuisine: North Indian
- Course: Dinner
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
To prepare this delightful Saffron Pilaf, begin by soaking the saffron strands in the warm milk. This will allow the saffron to release its vibrant color and flavor, which is crucial for the dish. Set this mixture aside to infuse while you prepare the other ingredients.
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In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes golden brown. The caramelization of the onion will add a lovely depth of flavor to your pilaf.
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After the onion has turned golden, carefully pour in the water and the saffron-infused warm milk. Add salt according to your taste preferences. Stir the mixture gently and bring it to a boil, allowing the aromas to fill your kitchen.
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Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the basmati rice. Stir the rice gently to ensure it is evenly distributed in the liquid. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This gentle cooking process allows the rice to absorb all the flavors while becoming tender.
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After 20 minutes, turn off the heat and let the pilaf sit, covered, for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This resting time allows the grains to fluff up and become perfectly cooked.
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Once the resting time is over, remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork, ensuring the grains are separated and the saffron is evenly distributed throughout the pilaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Saffron Pilaf alongside your favorite dishes such as Paneer Butter Masala, Dal Fry, and Phulka for a complete and satisfying North Indian dinner experience. The combination of the rich, creamy curry with the fragrant pilaf creates a delightful contrast that will leave everyone wanting more.
This Saffron Pilaf Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the warmth of home-cooked North Indian cuisine to your table, perfect for gatherings or simply to indulge in a comforting dinner at home. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the rich cultural heritage with each bite!
