One Pot Simple Moroccan Saffron Rice Pilaf
One Pot Simple Moroccan Saffron Rice Pilaf is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Morocco directly to your table. This easy-to-make pilaf features fluffy Basmati rice infused with aromatic spices and sweet dried fruits, creating a colorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup white Basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 strands of saffron
- ¼ cup boiling water (for saffron infusion)
- 1 ¼ cups water
- 1 white onion (finely chopped)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon ground fennel
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- ½ cup mixed dried fruits (such as apricots, raisins, cherries)
- ¼ cup almonds (toasted and chopped)
- ¼ cup pistachios (toasted and chopped)
Instructions
- Steep saffron strands in boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Rinse Basmati rice under cold running water until clear.
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan; sauté onion until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add spices and garlic, cooking for another minute.
- Stir in rinsed rice; coat well with spices. Pour saffron-infused water and remaining water; season with salt and pepper. Bring to boil, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until absorbed.
- Remove from heat; place dried fruits on top without stirring. Cover and let stand for 10 minutes.
- Fluff rice with a fork; mix in toasted nuts before serving warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg