Fragrant Pilau Rice Recipe
Indian Recipes

Ingredients:

large pinch
1 cup/8 oz/225 g
2 tbsp/1 oz/25 g
1
3
1

saffron strands
basmati rice
butter
shallot, minced
cardamom pods
cinnamon stick
salt

Method:

1. Briefly grind the saffron using a pestle and mortar, then mix the powder with 1 tbsp/15 ml boiling water and set aside. Rinse the rice and drain.

2. Melt the butter in a large, heavy-based saucepan. Fry the shallot gently for 2 minutes or until softened. Add the cardamom pods, cinnamon, and rice, and mix well.

3. Add 11/4 cups 10 fl oz/300 ml of water, the saffron mixture, and salt. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and cover the pan tightly. Simmer the rice for 15 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender. Discard the cardamom pods and cinnamon stick before serving.

Serves 4