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Persian Jeweled Rice

Persian Jeweled Rice: A Colorful, Flavor-Packed Delight

Persian Jeweled Rice is a vibrant dish featuring nutty basmati rice, dried fruits, and spices, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Steaming Time 40 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Persian
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 2 cups Basmati Rice nutty flavor and fluffy texture
  • 4 cups Water
For the Cooked Base
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter adds richness
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil prevents sticking
  • 1 medium Onion finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon adds warmth
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cardamom adds floral note
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Turmeric for color
  • 1 teaspoon Salt to taste
For the Sweet & Crunchy Mix
  • 1 cup Dried Apricots chopped
  • 1 cup Raisins
  • 1/2 cup Slivered Almonds
  • 1/2 cup Pistachios chopped
For Garnish and Freshness
  • 1/2 cup Pomegranate Seeds
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Orange Zest freshly grated
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest freshly grated

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Persian Jeweled Rice
  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak in water for 30 minutes.
  2. In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Drain the rice then add it to the boiling water and cook for 10 minutes.
  3. In the same pot, melt butter and oil, then sauté the chopped onion until golden brown for about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, and salt, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Layer half of the cooked rice over the onion mixture and sprinkle half of the dried fruits and nuts.
  6. Top with the remaining rice and the rest of the dried fruits and nuts, ensuring an even layer.
  7. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to low, cooking for 30-40 minutes.
  8. After steaming, let the rice sit for 10 minutes, then fluff with a fork and fold in garnishes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 6gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding saffron threads soaked in warm water before steaming.

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