18/11/2025
A fragrant dish that will bring colour and vibrance to any festive occasion with delicious ingredients that offer incredible benefits - this dish has a strong antioxidant profile, which helps protect cells from damage alongside aiding good digestion and gut health. The rich oils from the olives and nuts are helpful for improving cholesterol and reducing inflammation whilst the varied nutrients increase energy and offer mood lifting and neuroprotective properties 🥙
*Moroccon Spiced Rice*
*Ingredients*
6 strands saffron
¼ cup boiling water
1 cup Basmati extra long grain white rice
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
1 tsp ground coriander
½ tsp ground fennel
½ tsp ground turmeric
½ tsp ground cardamom
1 ¼ cups water
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup mixed fruit (apricots, raisins, cherries, dates etc)
¼ cup almonds, toasted and roughly chopped
¼ cup pistachios, toasted and roughly chopped (optional)
Small handful of fresh mint leaves
Handful pomegranate seed
*Directions*
In a small bowl, steep the saffron threads in the boiling water for about 10 minutes to release the flavour and colour.
Rinse the rice under cold running water for about 2 minutes, or until the water runs clear.
Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, ground coriander, fennel, turmeric, and cardamom. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the rinsed rice, and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in the saffron-infused water and 1 ¼ cups of water. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then bring to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 – 18 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Turn off the heat and add choice of fruit on top without stirring. Cover the pot and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the fruit to soften and infuse into the rice.
Stir in the toasted almonds and pistachios. Fluff the rice with a fork, then spoon it into a serving dish.
Top with fresh mint leaves and pomegranate seeds before serving.
Enjoy 😋
Ref https://www.citizen.co.za/lifestyle
