Authentic Persian Saffron Rice Recipe (Abkesh Method) - Basmati Rice!

saffron

💰Cheaper: turmeric

Turmeric can provide color but lacks saffron's unique flavor.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

Olive oil offers a healthier fat option.

dried barberries

💰Cheaper: dried cranberries

Dried cranberries are more accessible and less expensive.

chicken broth

💰Cheaper: vegetable broth

Vegetable broth is a cost-effective alternative.

Measure 2 cups of basmati rice and add to a large bowl. Fill with water, move the rice around with your fingertips and drain. Repeat 3-4 times until water becomes clearer.

In a large pot, add 16 cups of cold water and bring to a boil. Add salt and rice to the boiling water and bring back up to a boil. Cook the rice for about 6-7 minutes.

Remove from heat and pour rice into a strainer and rinse with cold water to halt the cooking process.

Add 2-3 Tbsp cooking oil to the bottom of the pot and add the rice back in, gradually decreasing the area as you add more rice. When all the rice is in the pot, it should resemble a pyramid.

Cover the lid with a kitchen towel or damkesh and steam on medium-low heat for 40 minutes.

Place 1/4 tsp ground saffron in a small bowl and add 2 Tbsp warm water. Mix and allow mixture to sit for about 10 minutes.

Transfer about 1 cup of the cooked rice into a small bowl and combine with the saffron mixture. Stir carefully.

Transfer remaining rice into a serving dish and add saffron rice to the top. Garnish with barberries and slivered pistachios if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens