Thank you so much for stopping by! If your taste buds are craving something aromatic, colorful, and completely enchanting, then you are in for such a treat today. This dish is close to my heart, and it’s an absolute celebration of Persian flavors. Today we’re diving into the warm, spiced, and naturally sweet world of Iranian Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruits—a feast for the eyes and the soul.
This recipe brings together basmati rice with toasted nuts, plump dried fruits, and a delicate blend of spices. It’s elegant enough for a holiday table, but simple enough to enjoy any time you want a little magic on your plate. It’s one of those “don’t lose this recipe!” dishes that will have everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe!
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What Is Iranian Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruits?
Iranian rice dishes are legendary—and this one is a standout. Often served during Nowruz (Persian New Year) or at celebratory meals, this dish layers fragrant basmati rice with saffron, dried fruits like raisins and apricots, and crunchy nuts such as pistachios and almonds. The result? A dish that’s anything but boring!!
Whether you serve it as a vegetarian main or a vibrant side dish alongside grilled meats, this rice will steal the show.
Reasons to Love This Recipe
Naturally sweet and savory – A perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Aromatic and vibrant – Thanks to cardamom, cinnamon, saffron, and more.
Totally customizable – Mix and match your favorite nuts and fruits.
Easy to make ahead – Great for meal prepping or special occasions.
Crowd-pleasing – Gorgeous to look at, even better to eat.
What Does Iranian Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruits Taste Like?
Every bite is a mix of fluffy, perfumed rice with golden, slightly chewy dried fruits and the rich, buttery crunch of nuts. The saffron adds a luxurious touch of earthy warmth, while hints of cardamom and cinnamon make it feel festive and deeply comforting. It’s a beautiful harmony of taste and texture—sweet, savory, and aromatic all at once.
Benefits of This Recipe
Plant-based and gluten-free – Naturally suitable for many diets.
Nutrient-rich – Nuts and dried fruits bring fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
Elevates any meal – Pairs beautifully with a range of entrees or can shine on its own.
Gorgeous presentation – Looks like you spent hours, but it’s so simple!
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 cups basmati rice
1/2 tsp saffron threads, crushed and soaked in 2 tbsp hot water
1/4 cup slivered almonds
1/4 cup chopped pistachios
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1/4 cup raisins or golden raisins
1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
2 tbsp dried barberries or cranberries (optional but traditional)
3 tbsp unsalted butter or ghee
1 small onion, finely sliced
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground cardamom
Salt to taste
Tools You’ll Need
Medium or large pot with a lid
Small saucepan for toasting nuts and fruits
Colander for rinsing rice
Slotted spoon or spatula
Mortar and pestle (for saffron, if needed)
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
Swap dried apricots for dried cherries or dates for deeper sweetness.
No saffron? Use a pinch of turmeric for color, though flavor will differ.
Add orange zest for a citrusy lift.
Use cashews or hazelnuts if preferred.
Barberries are traditional, but cranberries work well too!
How to Make Iranian Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruits
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures fluffy rice.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rice and boil for 6–8 minutes until just tender (parboiled). Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Infuse the Saffron
Soak crushed saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of hot (not boiling) water. Let it bloom for at least 5 minutes to release its color and aroma.
Step 3: Toast the Nuts and Fruits
In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter or ghee over medium heat. Add almonds, pistachios, and walnuts. Toast until golden and fragrant (2–3 minutes), then add raisins, apricots, and barberries. Cook for another 2 minutes until plump. Set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Onions and Spices
In the main pot, melt the remaining butter or ghee. Add sliced onions and sauté until soft and golden. Stir in cinnamon and cardamom. The smell here is already incredible!!
Step 5: Layer and Steam
Add half the rice over the onions, then sprinkle half the nut-fruit mix. Repeat with remaining rice and toppings. Drizzle the saffron water over the top.
Cover the pot with a clean kitchen towel under the lid to trap steam. Cook over low heat for 20–25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to steam to perfection.
Step 6: Fluff and Serve
Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Serve in a large dish, letting the golden saffron top shine. Garnish with extra pistachios or barberries if desired!
What to Serve With This Dish
Grilled lamb or chicken kebabs
Persian-style yogurt with cucumber and mint (Mast-o-Khiar)
Fresh herbs and feta
Roasted vegetables or eggplant stew (Khoresht Bademjan)
Or enjoy it as a main course with a side of salad—it’s hearty enough to stand alone.
Tips for the Perfect Iranian Rice
Rinse the rice well – This prevents clumping and gives that perfect fluffy texture.
Use high-quality saffron – Just a little goes a long way!
Don’t skip the steaming step – It makes all the difference in texture and flavor.
Watch the nuts closely – They burn fast! Toast just until golden.
Make it ahead – It reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a zip-top bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Gently steam with a splash of water or microwave in a covered dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this rice without saffron?
Yes, though saffron gives it its signature aroma and golden hue. Turmeric is a budget-friendly alternative.
What if I don’t have basmati rice?
You can use jasmine rice, but basmati gives the most authentic texture and fragrance.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Just use plant-based butter or oil instead of ghee.
Can I add meat to this?
Yes! Sautéed chicken or shredded lamb pairs beautifully when layered between the rice.
Conclusion
This Iranian Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruits is pure elegance in a pot. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together—visually stunning, richly flavored, and soul-warming. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just craving something beyond the usual, this rice is a beautiful place to start.
Looking for more Middle Eastern and Persian-inspired dishes? Check out:
Persian Saffron Chicken
Fesenjan (Pomegranate Walnut Stew)
Sweet Persian Rice Pudding (Sholeh Zard)
Share Your Creation!
Tried this recipe? I’d love to see it! Leave a review below and tag your photos on Pinterest—your version might inspire someone else’s dinner tonight!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 360
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 120mg
Iranian Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruits
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Aromatic basmati rice layered with golden dried fruits, toasted nuts, and a delicate blend of Persian spices—this Iranian Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruits is a celebration in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1/2 tsp saffron threads, crushed and soaked in 2 tbsp hot water
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup raisins or golden raisins
- 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 2 tbsp dried barberries or cranberries (optional but traditional)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter or ghee
- 1 small onion, finely sliced
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Boil in salted water for 6–8 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Soak crushed saffron threads in hot water and let bloom for at least 5 minutes.
- In a small saucepan, melt 1 tbsp butter or ghee. Toast almonds, pistachios, and walnuts until golden. Add raisins, apricots, and barberries. Cook until plump. Set aside.
- In a pot, melt remaining butter or ghee. Sauté sliced onions until soft and golden. Stir in cinnamon and cardamom.
- Add half the rice over the onions, sprinkle half the nut-fruit mix. Repeat with remaining rice and toppings. Drizzle saffron water over top.
- Cover with a towel under the lid. Cook on low for 20–25 minutes to steam and meld flavors.
- Fluff rice gently with a fork. Serve in a large dish, garnished with extra nuts or barberries if desired.
Notes
Swap in your favorite dried fruits and nuts. Add orange zest for a bright twist or sautéed chicken for added protein.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Persian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
Keywords: Persian rice, Iranian rice, saffron rice, nuts and dried fruit rice, Nowruz dish