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Cava Saffron Rice Recipe

Cava Saffron Rice Recipe

Olivia Brooks
This Cava Saffron Rice Recipe brings bright color and luxurious flavor to your table — fluffy, golden, and irresistible.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan with lid
  • Small bowl or cup
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Fork or rice paddle 
  • Optional: a nonstick skillet in case you prefer your rice with a golden crust.

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups basmati rice or jasmine rice; long-grain
  • 2 1/2 cups low sodium veggie or chicken broth.
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter to be richer
  • ½ teaspoon salt to taste

The Saffron Bloom

  • 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads approximately a heavy pinch
  • 3 teaspoons warm water or warm milk
  • Flavor Enhancers not compulsory but encouraged
  • 1 shallot or 1/2 onion finely chopped.
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped (garnish)

Instructions
 

Rinse the Rice:

  • Put your rice in a fine mesh strainer and run under cool water till the water is clear. This eliminates additional starch therefore your rice will come out fluffy, but not gluey.

Bloom the Saffron:

  • Prepare your saffron by crumbling your saffron threads lightly in between your fingers in a small bowl, and pour in warm water. Allow to steep 10 minutes. The fluid will assume, turn to a deep, golden-orange. This action releases all that saffron smell and appearance.

Sauté Aromatics:

  • Heat olive oil in your saucepan over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic and sauté until soft and fragrant-about 2-3 minutes. Do not brown them: you only wish to imbue them with their oil.

Toast the Rice:

  • Put the washed rice in the pot and gently stir it for about 1-2 minutes. This coats the grains with oil and adds a slightly nutty aroma to the rice.

Add Liquid:

  • Add your broth, add salt, and stir in the saffron water. You see that color of gold begin to spread on you--it is wonderful!

Simmer Gently:

  • Boil the pot, but reduce the heat to a simmer. Bake 15-17 minutes or until all liquid is evaporated.

Rest and Fluff:

  • Switch off the heat, and allow the rice to rest (covered) another 10 minutes. Next, prick it with a fork to loosen the grains.

Garnish and Serve:

  • Sprinkle lemon zest and chopped parsley on top. Warm and partake of the aroma as it permeates your kitchen.
Keyword Cava Saffron Rice Recipe