While rice is a very simple side dish, it never loses it's charm. Millions of people serve it every single day. This Iranian rice dish is simple and yet special. It takes more time to make than usual steamed rice, but it is worth the effort.
Ingredients
2 cups Basmati rice, washed and soaked*
4 cups water
1 tbsp kosher salt
Crispy rice base:
1 tbsp plain yogurt
1/4 cup butter
3 saffron threads ground in a bit of sugar, then soaked in 4 tbsp hot water
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup hot water
1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
Please read these instructions fully before beginning.
*Wash rice thoroughly. Rinse and agitate until the water runs clear. Soak in 4-5 cups of water with a good measure of salt. This helps the rice firm up and prevent it from falling apart. Soak the rice at least 2 hours; up to 24. Rinse salted water away and begin.
1. Now you are going to par-cook the rice. Boil 4 cups of water with salt in a 3 quart non-stick pot. Add rinsed rice, stir a few times to make sure it isn't clumped together. Boil for approximately 5 minutes; until just tender. Drain in a colander and rinse with cold water. Let drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, gently mix approximately 1/2 cup of the rice with yogurt, butter, saffron, and water. You may add some crushed cumin seeds if desired. I omit.
3. Spread this mixture on the bottom of the pot. Pack it down, then gently place the remaining rice on top of the yogurt mixture. Using a spatula, shape the rice into a pyramid.
4. Using the handle end of the spatula poke 2 to 3 holes into the pyramid. Place on stove; over medium high heat. When steam arises out of the 'holes' pour in water and melted butter mixture. Adjust heat to low-medium and place a clean dish towel over the pot. Then add the lid. Be sure and tuck the material away from the heat source.
5. Approximately every 7 to 10 minutes slightly rotate the pot 1/4 turn. This helps with even cooking of the crust. It takes about 40 to 45 minutes to fully steam-cook. Test a small piece of rice for desired result.
6. Remove pot from heat, towel and lid, then set on a cool damp towel. This will help release the rice from the pot in one piece. Let sit about 5 minutes.
7. Take a large dinner plate and place over the entire pot. Hold tightly with your hands, grasping the handles and the plate then invert. Serve and enjoy!
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