Date and Almond Tagine with Saffron Rice

A sweet-savory tagine featuring plump dates, toasted almonds, and fragrant saffron rice for a comforting meal.

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Category: Vegetarian

Prep: 15 minutes. Cook: 20 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup, sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup, pitted and chopped dates
• 1/4 tsp saffron threads
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Instructions

1. Step 1: Toast 1/2 cup sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until golden and fragrant. Set aside.
2. Step 2: Soak 1/4 tsp saffron threads in 2 tbsp warm water for 10 minutes to bloom.
3. Step 3: In a pot, combine 1 cup basmati rice, 2 cups water, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, and the bloomed saffron. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed.
4. Step 4: While rice cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup chopped dates and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
5. Step 5: Fluff cooked rice and fold in toasted almonds and date mixture. Serve immediately, garnished with extra almonds if desired.