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Saffron, Date, and Almond Rice

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A fragrant basmati rice dish layered with saffron-infused butter, golden almonds, and sweet Medjool dates, offering a perfect balance of aroma, texture, and flavor for both festive occasions and everyday meals.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1–2 hours soaking)
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop Steaming
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

2 cups (400 g) basmati rice

½ cup (110 g) unsalted butter

⅔ cup (100 g) whole blanched almonds, coarsely chopped

4 large Medjool dates, pitted and coarsely chopped (≈ 80 g)

¼ teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water

Salt (for soaking, boiling, and seasoning)

White pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Rinse rice under cold water. Soak in lukewarm water with 2 tablespoons salt for 1–2 hours. Drain and rinse again.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil with 2 tablespoons salt. Add rice and cook for 3–4 minutes until just undercooked. Drain and rinse with lukewarm water.
  3. In the same pot, melt 5½ tablespoons (80 g) butter over medium heat. Add almonds and sauté for 4 minutes until lightly golden.
  4. Add dates and cook for 2–3 minutes. Season with ½ teaspoon white pepper and ¼ teaspoon salt.
  5. Stir in half the rice and gently press to form a base layer.
  6. Mix saffron water into the remaining rice and spoon over the base layer.
  7. Dot with remaining butter. Cover lid with a clean kitchen towel and seal tightly. Cook over very low heat for 30–40 minutes until flavors meld and crust forms.
  8. Fluff the top layer and serve, breaking the crust into pieces to enjoy alongside.

Notes

  • For a richer taste, use ghee instead of butter.
  • Replace almonds with pistachios for a colorful twist.
  • Add orange zest to dates for a citrus aroma.
  • Raisins can be added for extra sweetness.
  • Ensure very low heat during final steaming to develop the crust without burning.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/saffron-date-and-almond-rice/