Saffron Rice Pilaf
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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This fragrant saffron rice pilaf is a beautiful vegan dish that brings a touch of elegance to any dinner table. The recipe uses high-quality basmati rice infused with the delicate aroma of saffron, creating a vibrant golden hue that is visually stunning. By frying the onions until they are deeply caramelised, you achieve a rich, savoury base that perfectly balances the natural sweetness of the dried currants and the earthy crunch of toasted slivered almonds.
As a versatile plant-based option, this pilaf works wonderfully as a celebratory side dish for a Sunday roast or as a light middle-eastern inspired main course. It is naturally dairy-free and packed with aromatic flavours, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a nutritious yet comforting homemade meal. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying dining experience.
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Ingredients for Saffron Rice Pilaf
3/4 teaspoons crumbled saffron threads
2 tablespoons boiling-hot water
80ml olive oil
240ml slivered almonds (110g)
1 very large onion, chopped (550 to 750g )
725ml white basmati rice (550g)
1075ml water
240ml dried currants (110g)
How to make Saffron Rice Pilaf
Soften saffron in hot water (2 tablespoons ) in a small bowl.
Heat oil in a 5-quart heavy pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Fry almonds, stirring frequently, until golden, about 3 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain.
Fry onion in oil remaining in pot, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, 15 to 20 minutes. Transfer half of onion to a bowl.
Add rice to onion in pot and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add water (1075ml ), saffron mixture, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/2 teaspoons pepper and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, until water is absorbed and rice is tender, 18 to 20 minutes. Let rice stand, covered, off heat 5 minutes.
While rice stands, stir almonds and currants into bowl with onion.
Fluff rice with a fork and serve with almond mixture spooned on top.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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