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–+ servings
Coconut Saffron Rice with Cardamom and Lime – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Coconut Saffron Rice with Cardamom and Lime

Transform a simple side dish into the star of your meal with this Coconut Saffron Rice. Fluffy basmati rice is infused with creamy coconut milk, exotic saffron, and zesty lime, all ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 3 cup
Calories: 363

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup (250 mL) white basmati rice
  • 1 cup (250 mL) full-fat coconut milk
  • 3/4 cup (185 mL) water
  • 2 cardamom pods, crushed, or a pinch of ground cardamom
  • 1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt
  • 1 pinch saffron threads
  • 2 tbsp (30 mL) fresh lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
  • Use full-fat canned coconut milk for the richest flavor and creamiest texture. Be sure to shake the can well before opening as it can separate.
  • Rinsing the rice until the water runs clear is crucial. This step removes excess starch and ensures fluffy, separate grains instead of a sticky clump.
  • For the most vibrant color and flavor, crumble the saffron threads between your fingers and let them steep in a tablespoon of warm water for 5 minutes before adding to the pot.
  • Resist the urge to lift the lid while the rice is simmering! This releases steam and can result in unevenly cooked rice.

Method
 

  1. Place the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear.
  2. Drain thoroughly.
  3. In a medium saucepan, bring the coconut milk, water, crushed cardamom pods, salt, and saffron to a rolling boil.
  4. Stir in the rinsed rice.
  5. Reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, still covered, for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Remove the lid, discard the cardamom pods, and drizzle the lime juice over the top. Gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 363kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 5gFat: 15g

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