Why I Love This Recipe
I love how this dish brings both elegance and comfort to the table. The blend of warm spices, saffron, and citrus zest fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma, while the mix of textures—from fluffy basmati rice to crunchy almonds and chewy dried fruits—makes each forkful exciting. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegan, and just as nourishing as it is beautiful.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 cups basmati rice
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1/4 cup vegetable oil
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1 large onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
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1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
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1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water
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1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
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1/2 cup dried cranberries
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1/2 cup golden raisins
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1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
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1/2 cup shelled pistachios
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
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3 cups water or chicken broth
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Zest of 1 orange
Directions
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I start by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Then I soak it in cold water for about 30 minutes and drain it.
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In a large pot, I heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. I add the chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden and soft. Then I stir in the garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant.
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I add the ground cumin, cinnamon, cardamom, and turmeric, cooking them for a minute to release their aromas.
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I stir in the drained rice, making sure it’s evenly coated with the spices and oil.
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Next, I pour in the water or broth, saffron water, and a pinch of salt. I bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid has absorbed.
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While the rice cooks, I lightly toast the chopped apricots, cranberries, and golden raisins in a dry pan until they become slightly plump. This step enhances their natural sweetness and texture.
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Once the rice is done, I let it rest off the heat for 10 minutes, then fluff it with a fork.
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I gently fold in the toasted fruits, almonds, pistachios, parsley, and orange zest.
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Finally, I taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, then serve.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves about 6–8 people. It takes approximately 15 minutes to prep, 30 minutes to cook, and 10 minutes to rest—so it’s ready in just under an hour.
Variations
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Protein Add-In: Sometimes I serve this rice alongside roasted chicken or lamb for a heartier main course.
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Citrus Twist: I occasionally add a splash of orange juice along with the zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
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Nuts and Fruits Swap: I like to mix it up with barberries, chopped dates, or walnuts depending on what I have on hand.
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More Herbs: A handful of chopped mint or cilantro gives a different herbal brightness.
Storage and Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I sprinkle a bit of water over the rice and warm it on the stove or in the microwave to restore its moisture and texture.
FAQs
Can I use another type of rice?
I prefer basmati for its long grains and fluffy texture, but jasmine rice can be used in a pinch. I avoid short-grain varieties as they become too sticky.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, it is naturally vegan when I use water or vegetable broth. Just make sure the saffron and all seasonings are additive-free if strict.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, I often prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently before serving. I wait to add the fresh herbs and orange zest until just before serving for maximum flavor.
What if I don’t have saffron?
Saffron adds a unique aroma and color, but if I don’t have it, a pinch of turmeric alone can provide color. For flavor, a tiny bit of rose water or orange blossom water can help mimic the floral notes.
What pairs well with Persian Jeweled Rice?
I love serving this rice with grilled kebabs, yogurt sauces, or roasted vegetables. It also makes a stunning side to festive holiday roasts.
Conclusion
Iranian Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruits is a celebration in a bowl—fragrant, colorful, and full of character. Whether I’m making it for a holiday table or just want to treat myself to something special, it never fails to impress. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exotic, and it brings people together in the most delicious way.
Print
Iranian Rice with Nuts and Dried Fruits (Persian Jeweled Rice)
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Fragrant, fluffy rice blended with saffron, apricots, cranberries, pistachios, and orange zest—this elegant dish brings vibrant flavor to any meal.
Ingredients
2 cups basmati rice
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cardamom
1/4 tsp ground turmeric
1/4 tsp saffron threads, dissolved in 2 tbsp hot water
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup golden raisins
1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
1/2 cup shelled pistachios
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
3 cups water or chicken broth
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Zest of 1 orange
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain.
In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for 5–7 minutes until golden. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Stir in cumin, cinnamon, cardamom, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
Add the drained rice, stirring to coat in spices.
Pour in water or broth, saffron water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until tender.
Meanwhile, toast dried apricots, cranberries, and raisins in a dry pan for 1–2 minutes until plump.
Once the rice is cooked, let it rest off heat for 10 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Gently fold in toasted fruits, almonds, pistachios, parsley, and orange zest.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper and serve.
Notes
Grind saffron with a pinch of sugar before adding hot water for enhanced color and flavor.
Toasting dried fruit boosts their sweetness and texture.
For best results, add herbs and zest just before serving.
Rose water or orange blossom water adds a traditional Persian floral aroma.
Use a fork to fluff the rice—this keeps grains separate and fluffy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Persian / Iranian
