Name: One Pot Simple Moroccan Saffron Rice Pilaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 1 cup white basmati rice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 6 strands saffron; ¼ cup boiling water (for saffron infusion); 1¼ cups water; 1 white onion, finely chopped; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; ½ teaspoon ground fennel; ½ teaspoon ground turmeric; ½ teaspoon ground cardamom; Salt and black pepper, to taste; ½ cup mixed dried fruits (such as apricots, raisins, or cherries); ¼ cup almonds, toasted and chopped; ¼ cup pistachios, toasted and chopped

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This fragrant Moroccan Saffron Rice Pilaf combines fluffy basmati rice with aromatic spices, dried fruits, and toasted nuts. With just one pot, you’ll create a dish that’s colorful, comforting, and full of the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine. Perfect as a side dish or a standalone meal.

One Pot Simple Moroccan Saffron Rice Pilaf

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fragrant and flavorful with authentic Moroccan spices
Perfectly fluffy rice thanks to rinsing and steaming
Balanced with sweet dried fruits and crunchy nuts
Cooked in just one pot for easy cleanup
Impressive enough for dinner parties, simple enough for weeknights

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup white basmati rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 strands of saffron
¼ cup boiling water (for saffron infusion)
1¼ cups water
1 white onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon ground fennel
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ cup mixed dried fruits (apricots, raisins, cherries)
¼ cup almonds, toasted and chopped
¼ cup pistachios, toasted and chopped

directions

Bloom saffron: Steep saffron strands in ¼ cup boiling water for 10 minutes to release color and flavor.
Rinse rice: Rinse basmati rice under cold water until it runs clear (about 2 minutes). This removes excess starch for fluffy rice.
Soften onions: Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add spices: Stir in coriander, fennel, turmeric, cardamom, and garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Toast rice: Add rinsed rice and stir for 3 minutes to coat with spices.
Cook rice: Pour in saffron water and 1¼ cups additional water. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15–18 minutes until water is absorbed.
Steam with fruits: Turn off heat and layer dried fruits on top. Cover and let sit for 10 minutes so fruits soften and flavors meld.
Finish: Stir in toasted almonds and pistachios. Fluff with a fork and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for brightness
Substitute cashews or walnuts for almonds/pistachios
Try golden raisins, cranberries, or figs in place of other dried fruits
Stir in chickpeas or tofu for extra protein to make it a main dish
Add a pinch of cinnamon or cumin for a deeper Moroccan flavor

storage/reheating

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture
Freezing: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat with a little broth or water

FAQs

Do I need to use saffron?

Saffron adds a unique flavor and golden color. If unavailable, use a pinch of turmeric for color, though the taste won’t be identical.

Can I make this recipe with brown rice?

Yes, but it will require longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust to package directions.

How do I prevent the rice from being sticky?

Rinse basmati thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and avoid stirring too much while it cooks.

Can I use store-bought saffron water?

Yes, but blooming saffron strands yourself enhances both flavor and aroma.

What kind of dried fruits work best?

Apricots, raisins, cherries, or cranberries are great. Choose unsweetened varieties for balance.

Can I make it nut-free?

Yes, simply omit the nuts or substitute with roasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Can this be served cold?

Yes, it makes a lovely room-temperature or cold salad-like dish, perfect for picnics.

Is this dish vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free as written.

What pairs well with Moroccan rice pilaf?

Serve alongside roasted vegetables, vegan tagine, or grilled plant-based protein.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double ingredients and cook in a larger pot. Cooking time remains about the same.

Conclusion

This One Pot Simple Moroccan Saffron Rice Pilaf brings warmth, fragrance, and texture to your table with every bite. Fluffy basmati rice, golden saffron, aromatic spices, sweet dried fruits, and crunchy nuts make this a versatile dish that’s both elegant and easy. Perfect as a side or centerpiece, it’s sure to impress at both everyday meals and special occasions.