Vegetables Recipes - Indian Saffron Pilau Rice

Ingredients

• 350 g/12 oz/1 1/2 cups basmati rice

• 100 g/4 oz/1/2 cup unsalted (sweet) butter, melted

• 250 ml/8fl oz/1 cup plain yoghurt

• 4 small pieces cinnamon stick

• 2 cardamoms, split along one side 4 whole cloves

• 30 ml/2 tbsp sultanas (golden raisins)

• 15 ml/1 tbsp chopped pistachio nuts

• 15 ml/1 tbsp chopped almonds

• 15 ml/1 tbsp caster (superfine) sugar

• 10 ml/2 tsp salt

• 15 ml/1 tbsp ground cumin

• 500 ml/18fl oz/2 1/4 cups water

• 15 ml/1 tbsp saffron powder

---

Method:

1. Wash and drain the rice thoroughly. Place in a saucepan with all the remaining ingredients. Stir well.

2. Cover and cook in the oven at 200°C/400°F/gas mark 6 for 10 minutes.

3. Reduce the heat to 150°C/300°F/gas mark 2 and cook for a further 40 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Fluff up with a fork and serve.