Imagine a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors, where each grain of rice tells a story of Spanish culinary tradition. This Spanish Saffron Rice with Raisins and Pine Nuts isn't just a side dish—it's a magical experience that will transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched kitchens of Spain. With its luxurious saffron golden hue, sweet raisins, and crunchy pine nuts, this recipe promises to elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 tsp saffron threads
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Toast the saffron threads in a dry skillet over low heat for 30 seconds to release their aromatic oils, then crush them gently using a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon.
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add long-grain rice to the pan and stir to coat the grains with olive oil, toasting them lightly for 1-2 minutes until they become slightly translucent.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the crushed saffron threads. Stir to distribute the saffron evenly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender.
- While the rice is cooking, lightly toast the pine nuts in a separate dry skillet over medium-low heat until golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the raisins over the rice to plump them up and infuse their sweetness into the dish.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to fully absorb any remaining moisture.
- Fluff the rice gently with a fork, then fold in the toasted pine nuts. Season with salt to taste.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional toasted pine nuts if desired. Serve hot as a side dish or light main course.
Tips
- Saffron Quality Matters: Use high-quality, fresh saffron threads to ensure the most vibrant color and rich flavor.
- Toasting Technique: Gently toast saffron and pine nuts to enhance their natural aromatics—but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Liquid Absorption is Key: Use a tight-fitting lid and resist the urge to peek while the rice is cooking to ensure perfect texture.
- Resting Time: Allow the rice to rest after cooking; this helps the grains absorb remaining moisture and develop deeper flavors.
- Serving Suggestion: For an authentic touch, serve this rice alongside grilled seafood or roasted chicken to complete your Spanish-inspired meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
