Fragrant Kashmiri Rice Pilaf with Saffron and Almonds

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-27 · Updated 2026-06-27

Fluffy basmati rice cooked with saffron, aromatic spices, and toasted almonds for a vibrant and fragrant side dish. This Indian-inspired rice and grain recipe, ready in about 65 minutes, pairs basmati rice, water, saffron threads for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 6, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 3 1/2 cups water
• 1/2 tsp saffron threads
• 1/4 cup warm milk
• 3 tbsp ghee
• 5 green cardamom pods
• 1 (2-inch) cinnamon stick
• 4 cloves
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1 tsp salt

Nonstick skillets worth buying → Best Nonstick Cookware for 2026: Top 5 Skillet Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse 2 cups basmati rice under cold water until water runs clear; soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain.
2. Step 2: Soak 1/2 tsp saffron threads in 1/4 cup warm milk for 15 minutes to extract color and aroma.
3. Step 3: Heat 3 tbsp ghee in a large heavy saucepan over medium heat. Add 5 green cardamom pods, 1 cinnamon stick, 4 cloves, and 1 bay leaf; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add the drained basmati rice and 1 tsp salt; stir gently to coat the rice grains with ghee and spices, cooking for 2 minutes.
5. Step 5: Pour in 3 1/2 cups water and the saffron-infused milk, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
6. Step 6: Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid, until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat and let sit covered for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
8. Step 8: Stir in 1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds and 1/4 cup raisins for added texture and sweetness before serving alongside your main dishes.