Tahdig (persian Saffron And Pistachio Rice)

Tahdig is a beloved Persian rice dish known for its crispy golden crust, infused with the flavors of saffron and pistachio. This recipe combines fragrant basmati rice with the rich, nutty taste of pistachios and the luxurious aroma of saffron, creating a delightful side dish or a satisfying main course.

Tahdig (persian Saffron And Pistachio Rice)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
  • 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the yogurt with the saffron threads until well combined.
  3. In a large non-stick pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the rice and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour 3 cups of water into the pot and add salt to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. Spread the saffron yogurt mixture over the partially cooked rice. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top.
  6. Cover the pot with a clean kitchen towel and then place the lid on top to create a tight seal. Cook for an additional 30 minutes over low heat.
  7. To serve, carefully scoop out the tahdig from the bottom of the pot and transfer to a serving platter. Then fluff the remaining rice and transfer to a separate bowl.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
45 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Protein
5g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Non-stick pot Clean kitchen towel Serving platter

Tools

Knife Cutting board Small bowl

Serving suggestions

Tahdig pairs beautifully with grilled meats, stews, or a simple salad. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Tips & tricks

For an extra crispy tahdig, let the rice cook for a few additional minutes at the end, but be careful not to burn it.

Cost

$10