Go Back
–+ servings
Persian Jeweled Rice

Persian Jeweled Rice: A Festive and Flavorful Delight

Persian Jeweled Rice is a vibrant dish that combines fluffy basmati rice, sweet dried fruits, and crunchy nuts, creating a delightful celebration on your plate.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Persian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Rice
  • 2 cups Basmati Rice Jasmine rice can be a nice substitute.
  • 4 cups Water Essential for cooking the rice to perfection.
For the Flavor Base
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter You could also use ghee for an authentic touch.
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil Olive oil can be used for a different flavor profile.
  • 1 unit Onion Finely chopped.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cardamom Essential spice.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Ground Turmeric
  • to taste unit Salt Adjust to taste.
For the Sweetness
  • 1 cup Dried Apricots Figs or dates can be alternatives.
  • 0.5 cup Raisins Golden raisins can be substituted if desired.
For the Crunch
  • 0.5 cup Slivered Almonds Walnuts can be a fantastic alternative.
  • 0.5 cup Pistachios Swap with pecans if preferred.
For the Finishing Touches
  • 1 cup Pomegranate Seeds
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley Chopped.
  • 1 tablespoon Orange Zest Can also use lemon zest.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Skip if using more orange zest.

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold running water until clear, then soak in fresh water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add soaked rice and a pinch of salt; cook for about 10 minutes until al dente. Drain and let it steam.
  3. Melt butter and oil in the pot over medium heat, then add onion and sauté until golden brown.
  4. Stir in spices and salt; cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Layer half of the rice over the spice mixture, then add half of the dried fruits, nuts. Repeat layering with remaining rice and toppings.
  6. Cover and steam on low heat for 30-40 minutes.
  7. Let sit covered for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
  8. Fold in pomegranate seeds, parsley, and citrus zests before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Rinse your rice thoroughly and avoid lifting the lid while steaming for the best texture. Customize the dried fruits to your liking!

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!