Sugar-Free Saffron Rice

Delight your senses with this vibrant and aromatic Sugar-Free Saffron Rice, a healthier spin on the classic saffron rice dish. Perfectly fluffy basmati rice is delicately infused with the golden hues and fragrant elegance of saffron, while hints of ground turmeric, cinnamon, and bay leaf add warmth and depth. Sautéed onions lend a subtle sweetness, all without the need for added sugar, making this dish both flavorful and wholesome. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy yet luxurious side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or hearty curries. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, this golden-hued rice is sure to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Basmati rice
• 2 cups Water
• 1 pinch Saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 1 whole Bay leaf
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground turmeric
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 inch Cinnamon stick

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well in a colander.

Step 2

In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads with 2 tablespoons of warm water. Set aside to bloom for at least 5 minutes.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and ground turmeric. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the rinsed basmati rice to the saucepan, stirring gently to coat the grains with the butter and spices. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast lightly.

Step 6

Pour in the saffron water (with threads) and the 2 cups of water. Add the salt and black pepper, stirring to combine.

Step 7

Increase the heat to high and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 8

Without removing the lid, turn off the heat and let the rice sit for another 5 minutes to finish cooking in its own steam.

Step 9

Remove the lid, discard the bay leaf and cinnamon stick, and gently fluff the rice with a fork.

Step 10

Serve hot alongside your favorite main dish, and enjoy the aromatic flavors of sugar-free saffron rice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(769.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	477.6

Total Fat 24.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 14.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 62mg	0%
Sodium 1203.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 58.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 2.9g	0%
Total Sugars 2.5g
Protein 8.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 87.1mg	0%
Iron 3.9mg	0%
Potassium 190.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.9%

Protein: 6.6%

Carbs: 47.5%