Timman Z Affaran Iraqi Saffron Rice with Meat

Delight your taste buds with *Timman Z Affaran*, a luxurious Iraqi saffron rice with tender meat that’s as aromatic as it is delicious. This traditional dish combines fluffy basmati rice infused with golden saffron, creating a vibrant and fragrant base that perfectly complements savory, spice-coated beef or lamb cooked to perfection. A medley of warm spices, including cinnamon, allspice, and cardamom, lends a rich, authentic Middle Eastern flavor, while optional garnishes like slivered almonds, raisins, and fresh parsley add layers of texture and color. Whether served for a special occasion or a comforting family meal, this hearty one-pot recipe is a showstopper that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for lovers of Middle Eastern cuisine, *Timman Z Affaran* is a must-try for those seeking a flavorful centerpiece that’s steeped in culture and tradition.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:80 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups Basmati rice
• 1 teaspoon Saffron threads
• 0.25 cup Warm water
• 1.5 pounds Beef or lamb (boneless, cubed)
• 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves Garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Ground allspice
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground turmeric
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground cardamom
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black pepper
• 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil or ghee
• 3 cups Chicken or beef stock
• 0.25 cup Slivered almonds (optional, for garnish)
• 0.25 cup Raisins (optional, for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Wash the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Set aside to soak in water for 20 minutes, then drain.

Step 2

In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in 1/4 cup of warm water and let it steep while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 3

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or ghee in a large, heavy pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden and softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the cubed beef or lamb to the pot and brown the meat on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.

Step 6

Stir in the ground cinnamon, allspice, turmeric, cardamom, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the meat with the spices.

Step 7

Pour in the chicken or beef stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the meat is tender.

Step 8

While the meat cooks, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in a separate pot. Add the drained rice and stir it gently for 2-3 minutes over medium heat to lightly toast it.

Step 9

Add the saffron water (including the threads) to the rice, followed by an additional 3 cups of hot water. Season with a pinch of salt and stir gently.

Step 10

Bring the rice to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot tightly. Allow the rice to cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 11

To serve, gently fluff the rice with a fork and layer it on a large serving platter. Place the cooked meat mixture on top of the rice.

Step 12

Optionally, garnish with slivered almonds, raisins, and chopped parsley or cilantro for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Step 13

Serve hot and enjoy this aromatic and hearty dish with family or friends!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2116.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2967.3

Total Fat 194.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 62.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 544.3mg	0%
Sodium 7804.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 165.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 12.2g	0%
Total Sugars 36.7g
Protein 164.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 340.2mg	0%
Iron 28.0mg	0%
Potassium 3138.9mg	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: 57.0%

Protein: 21.5%

Carbs: 21.5%