Saffron-Infused Basmati Rice Pilaf with Toasted Pine Nuts and Raisins

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-07 · Updated 2026-06-07

Fragrant basmati rice gently cooked with saffron and aromatic spices, studded with toasted pine nuts and sweet golden raisins. This Middle Eastern-inspired rice and grain recipe (vegetarian), ready in about 65 minutes, pairs basmati rice, water, unsalted butter for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 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
• 3.5 cups water
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp saffron threads
• 2 tbsp hot water
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1/3 cup golden raisins
• 1.5 tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse 2 cups basmati rice under cold water until water runs clear, then soak in cold water for 30 minutes and drain.
2. Step 2: Soak 1/2 tsp saffron threads in 2 tbsp hot water for 10 minutes to release color and flavor.
3. Step 3: In a large saucepan, melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup pine nuts and toast for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant, then remove and set aside.
4. Step 4: Add 1 medium finely chopped onion to the butter and cook for 5-6 minutes until soft and translucent.
5. Step 5: Stir in drained rice, 1.5 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground cardamom; cook for 2 minutes, stirring gently to coat rice with butter and spices.
6. Step 6: Pour in 3.5 cups water and the saffron infusion, bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes until rice is tender and water absorbed.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat and let sit covered for 10 minutes. Fluff rice gently with a fork, then fold in 1/3 cup golden raisins and the toasted pine nuts before serving.