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Bowl of Persian jeweled rice with nuts and pomegranate seeds

Persian Jeweled Rice

A colorful, festive rice dish that combines aromatic spices, dried fruits, and nuts, perfect as a side for any occasion.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish, Vegetarian
Cuisine: Persian
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups basmati rice Use high-quality basmati.
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter For authentic flavor.
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
Fruits and Nuts
  • 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/2 cup slivered almonds
  • 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
  • 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear; soak in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil and add the soaked rice. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Cooking
  1. In the same pot, melt butter and oil over medium heat; add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Stir in cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, and salt, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Layer half the cooked rice over the onion mixture; sprinkle half of the dried apricots, raisins, almonds, and pistachios. Add the remaining rice on top with the rest of the fruits and nuts.
  4. Cover with a tight-fitting lid, reduce heat to low, and cook for 30-40 minutes to steam.
  5. Remove from heat and let sit for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and gently fold in pomegranate seeds, parsley, orange zest, and lemon zest before serving.

Notes

Make this dish ahead of time; cool and refrigerate after steaming. Add pomegranate seeds and zest just before serving.