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Saffron Basmati Rice recipe served on a plate, by Pekin the Chef

Jul 14 2026

Restaurants›Zohara Mediterranean Kitchen›Saffron Basmati Rice Recipe

Saffron Basmati Rice Recipe

Inspired by Zohara Mediterranean Kitchen

Time40m

Serves4

Saffron | Green Garbanzos | Chic Peas

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Ingredients

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Ingredients

1 cup Basmati rice

2 cups Water

1 tsp saffron threads

1 cup Green garbanzos (fresh or frozen)

1 cup Chickpeas (cooked or canned)

2 tbs olive oil

1 medium Onion (finely chopped)

2 cloves Garlic (minced)

1 tsp Celtic sea salt

1 tsp black pepper

2 tbs Cilantro (chopped, for garnish)

Method

Directions

1

Prepare the Saffron

Soak the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water for about 10 minutes to release their color and flavor.

2

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.

3

Combine Ingredients

Add the basmati rice to the pot and stir for about 2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavor. Then, add the water, saffron (along with its soaking water), salt, and black pepper.

4

Simmer the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.

5

Add Garbanzos

After the rice is cooked, gently fold in the green garbanzos and chickpeas. Cover and let sit for an additional 5 minutes for the flavors to meld.

6

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve warm.