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Crispy Persian Tahdig Recipe Easy Saffron Rice Perfection at Home

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A traditional Persian dish featuring crispy, golden saffron-infused basmati rice with a buttery crust, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (400g) long-grain basmati rice
  • 1/4 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 2 tbsp warm water
  • 4 tbsp (60g) unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • About 3 cups (720ml) water
  • Optional: 2 tbsp plain yogurt

Instructions

  1. Rinse 2 cups (400g) of basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, about 3-4 times. Soak the rice in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain thoroughly.
  2. Crush 1/4 tsp saffron threads lightly and soak in 2 tbsp warm water for 10 minutes until the water turns deep amber.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water (about 8 cups / 1.9L with 1 tsp salt) to a rolling boil. Add the soaked rice and cook for 6-7 minutes until just tender but still firm (al dente). Drain and rinse briefly with warm water.
  4. Over medium heat, melt 4 tbsp (60g) unsalted butter and 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot. Swirl to coat the bottom evenly.
  5. Mix half of the cooked rice with the saffron water gently. Spread the plain rice evenly over the butter-oil base in the pot. Then layer the saffron-infused rice on top.
  6. Using the back of a spoon, gently press the rice down to compact it slightly. Cover the pot with a clean kitchen towel and place the lid tightly on top.
  7. Reduce heat to low and cook for 30-40 minutes until a golden crust forms and you smell a nutty, buttery aroma.
  8. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Carefully invert the pot onto a serving plate so the crispy tahdig is on top. Loosen any stuck rice gently with a spatula.

Notes

Do not lift the lid during cooking to keep rice fluffy and crust crispy. Use medium-low heat to avoid burning. Rest the pot before flipping to help crust firm up. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil and use plant-based yogurt or omit yogurt.

Nutrition

Keywords: Persian tahdig, saffron rice, crispy rice, basmati rice, Persian cuisine, saffron, tahdig recipe, easy tahdig, rice crust

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/crispy-persian-tahdig-recipe-easy-saffron-rice-perfection-at-home/