Saffron Infused Red Pepper Basmati Pilaf
This vibrant Saffron Infused Red Pepper Basmati Pilaf is the perfect side dish that elevates any meal. A delightful combination of sautéed red peppers and onions, fragrant basmati rice, and a hint of saffron creates a flavorful and colorful dish. Topped with parmesan cheese and fresh chives, this pilaf is not only visually stunning but packed with delicious flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment to your favorite proteins or a stand-alone vegetarian delight. Serve it hot for a comforting and indulgent experience.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
5 tablespoons (melted)
red peppers
1 1/2 cups (chopped)
onion
3/4 cup (chopped)
basmati rice
1 1/2 cups (uncooked)
chicken broth
3 cups (low sodium preferred)
salt
to taste
black pepper
to taste
saffron
1/4 teaspoon (crushed)
parmesan cheese
6 tablespoons (grated)
chives
3 tablespoons (chopped)
Instructions
1
In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat until fully melted and bubbling.
2
Add the chopped red peppers and onions to the pan. Sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
3
Stir in the basmati rice, ensuring each grain is coated in the buttery mixture. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes.
4
Pour in the chicken broth and add salt, black pepper, and crushed saffron. Stir to combine, bringing the mixture to a boil.
5
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
6
Remove from heat and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and chopped chives until evenly distributed.
7
Serve the pilaf hot, garnished with extra chives if desired, and enjoy this flavorful dish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Saffron Infused Red Pepper Basmati Pilaf?
It is a vibrant side dish combining sautéed red peppers, onions, fragrant basmati rice, and saffron, topped with parmesan and chives.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is tagged as gluten-free, though you should always verify the labels on your specific brand of chicken broth.
Is this pilaf suitable for vegetarians?
The recipe is tagged as vegetarian; however, ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to adhere to a strict vegetarian diet.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
What type of rice is used for this pilaf?
This recipe specifically uses basmati rice for its long grains and aromatic qualities.
How much butter do I need?
You will need 5 tablespoons of butter, which should be melted in a large sauté pan.
Can I use a different type of oil?
While butter is specified for richness, you could use olive oil or a neutral oil if preferred.
What is the quantity of red peppers required?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of chopped red peppers.
How should the onion be prepared?
The onion should be chopped, and you will need 3/4 cup in total.
How much chicken broth is used?
The recipe requires 3 cups of chicken broth, preferably a low sodium version.
How long should I sauté the peppers and onions?
Sauté the chopped red peppers and onions for about 3 to 5 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
Why is the rice toasted?
Toasting ensures each grain of rice is coated in the buttery mixture and develops a deeper flavor.
How long should I toast the basmati rice?
Stir and toast the rice grains for about 2 minutes.
How much saffron is included in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of crushed saffron to infuse the rice with color and flavor.
What other seasonings are added to the liquid?
In addition to saffron, you should add salt and black pepper to taste.
What is the cooking time for the rice?
The rice needs to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes on low heat.
How do I know the rice is finished cooking?
The rice is ready when the liquid is fully absorbed and the grains are tender.
What is the first step after removing the pan from heat?
Gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
How much parmesan cheese is used?
The recipe calls for 6 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese.
When do I add the fresh chives?
Stir in 3 tablespoons of chopped chives after the rice has been fluffed, along with the parmesan cheese.
Can I garnish the dish?
Yes, you can garnish the finished pilaf with extra chives for a fresh presentation.
What category of rice dish is this?
This recipe is categorized as a Long Grain Rice dish.
Is this considered an easy recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for home cooks.
What creates the vibrant color of this dish?
The combination of the crushed saffron and the sautéed red peppers provides the dish's stunning color.
What should the heat setting be for simmering?
Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low for simmering.
Should the pan be covered during cooking?
Yes, the pan should be covered while the rice simmers to ensure proper absorption of the liquid.
What are the main flavor profiles of this dish?
The dish is savory and fragrant, featuring notes of butter, sweet red peppers, and aromatic saffron.
Can this be served as a main course?
While designed as a side dish, it can certainly serve as a standalone vegetarian meal.
What is the preparation for the saffron?
The saffron should be crushed before being added to the pan.
How should the final dish be served?
The pilaf should be served hot for the best comforting and indulgent experience.