Print

Saffron and Spice Infused Chicken with Barberry Rice

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A delightful culinary masterpiece that brings rich Middle Eastern flavors to your kitchen with tender chicken and fluffy basmati rice studded with tart barberries.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 6 pieces bone-in chicken (drumsticks or thighs)
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 3/4 teaspoons turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon coriander
  • 1/8 teaspoon chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken stock
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron, ground
  • 1 ice cube
  • 1 1/2 cups basmati rice, dry
  • 1/3 cup dried barberries
  • 1 teaspoon butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • Juice of one lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Create saffron water by sprinkling ground saffron over an ice cube and allowing it to melt completely.
  2. Heat a large pot over medium-high and pour in the vegetable oil.
  3. Season chicken with spices and sear until browned.
  4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and allow them to soften for about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the remaining spices, tomato paste, and saffron water, mixing until integrated.
  6. Pour in chicken stock, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 40 minutes.
  7. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions, usually around 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  8. In another pan, heat the butter, add barberries and sugar, cooking until the berries become plump.
  9. Mix a portion of the rice with the barberry mixture and saffron water.
  10. Combine diced cucumber, tomatoes, and onion in a bowl, squeeze lemon juice over it, and add mint.

Notes

Avoid overcooking the rice and ensure the chicken browns well for enhanced flavor. Use high-quality saffron for the best results.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yummyfirst.com/saffron-infused-chicken-barberry-rice/