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
Scale
- 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