Fragrant Saffron Rice with Cashews & Spices

Sevani Pinto
Oct 13
2 min read

Lately, I’ve been experimenting more in the kitchen, and one of the recipes that really stood out during this round of development is this saffron basmati rice recipe. It turned out so well, I knew I had to share it with you.

Lightly spiced and beautifully fragrant, this rice is elevated with the subtle richness of saffron and the warm crunch of toasted cashews. It’s simple enough to make on a weeknight, yet luxurious enough to serve as the star of the table. Whether you pair it with an Indian curry, grilled veggies, or enjoy it solo with a spoonful of creamy yogurt, this dish holds its own.

This isn’t just a side — it’s a centerpiece.

So what are you waiting for? Let's get cooking!

Ingredients:

1 cup basmati rice, washed and drained
2 cups water (use the same cup you used to measure the rice)
¼ tsp saffron strands
1 tbsp ghee (or butter)
½ tsp cumin seeds
2 cardamom pods
3 cloves
1 bay leaf
12 cashews, halved
1 tsp salt

Directions:

1:Infuse the saffron:

In a small bowl or cup, stir the saffron into 2 cups of water. Set aside to let the color and flavor develop while you prepare the rice.

2:Toast the spices & nuts:

In a medium pot or rice cooker, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, cardamom pods, cloves, bay leaf, and cashew halves. Sauté until the spices release their aroma and the cashews turn golden brown.

3:Add rice & salt:

Stir in the washed basmati rice and salt. Let it coat gently in the spiced ghee mixture for 30–60 seconds.

4:Cook the rice:

Pour in the saffron-infused water. Stir once to combine. Cover with a lid and cook on low heat (or follow your rice cooker’s white rice setting) until all the water is absorbed and the rice is fluffy — about 15 to 18 minutes.

5:Fluff & serve:

Once the saffron rice is done, let the rice sit for 5 minutes, then fluff gently with a fork.

Your Fragrant Saffron Rice with Cashews & Spices is now ready to be served! (Serve warm with your favorite curry, dal, or even grilled vegetables.)