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Crunchy Baked Saffron Rice (Tachin)

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Crunchy Baked Saffron Rice (Tachin) is a Persian classic known for its crisp golden crust and fragrant, tender rice. Infused with saffron and baked to perfection, it’s an elegant yet comforting dish.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Persian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 8 cups water
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 cup plain full-fat yogurt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 100 g (about 7 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 3 tablespoons hot water (for saffron)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak in water with 1 teaspoon salt for 30 minutes.
  2. Bring 8 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add remaining 1 teaspoon of salt and the soaked rice. Boil for 6–7 minutes until partially cooked, then drain.
  3. Dissolve saffron threads in 3 tablespoons of hot water and let steep for 5 minutes.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, eggs, melted butter, brewed saffron, and turmeric until smooth.
  5. Add about 3 cups of the parboiled rice to the yogurt mixture and gently mix to coat.
  6. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
  7. Grease a nonstick or oven-safe baking dish with vegetable oil. Spread the yogurt-coated rice on the bottom and press it down. Layer the remaining plain rice on top without mixing.
  8. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes until the crust is golden.
  9. Let rest for 5 minutes after baking, then carefully invert onto a serving platter to reveal the crust.

Notes

  • Use a nonstick or well-greased baking dish to help with unmolding.
  • For variation, add shredded chicken, thinly sliced potatoes, or a pinch of cumin or cardamom.
  • Resting before unmolding helps the crust set and prevents breaking.
  • Reheat in the oven to preserve the crispy texture.
  • Tachin can be frozen, though the crust may soften slightly after thawing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/crunchy-baked-saffron-rice-tachin/