Basmati Rice with Saffron

Last updated: Wednesday July 30, 2025

Ingredients

-
1/2
 Cup Basmati Rice (Aged / Rinsed 3x)
-
1
 TBSP Oil (Olive, ghee, or oil of choice)
-
1/4
 tsp Salt
-
1/8
 tsp Saffron strands
2-3
-
 TBSP Onion (Finely chopped)
2
-
 TBSP Cashews (Optional)

Instructions - Rice Cooker Method

  1. Wash dry rice grains well until water runs clear (about 3-5 times).
  2. Turn on rice cooker on 'Cook' and add olive oil. You may coat basmati grains in the oil prior to adding water.
  3. Add rinsed and well drained rice to melted ghee in pot and mix well.
  4. Add water (3/4 cup water: 1/2 cups rice ratio) and close the rice cooker with its lid.
  5. If your rice cooker has options, select white rice, or else start the cook button.
  6. Once cook time is over, let sit 5-7 minutes. Open lid and fluff rice before serving.
  7. If you want a softer texture, add 3-4 TBSP additional water, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes.

Instructions - Instant Pot Method

  1. Wash dry rice grains well until water runs clear (about 3-5 times)
  2. Press the sauté button on your Instant Pot. Let it heat up 2 minutes and add ghee to melt or oil. Move it around the pot to provide a coating and prevent sticking.
  3. Add washed rice, 3/4 cup water and salt. Mix well.
  4. Close the lid, secure the valve. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes. Naturally release the pressure 15 minutes.
  5. Fluff the rice with a fork and enjoy.

Background:
Easy and oil flavor can be easily modified based on the dish you are preparing.

Yield:              6-8 Servings
Theo and Nancy Black