saffron pilaw with cashew nuts

by Sejal Sukhadwala











Ingredients
250g/10oz basmati rice
½ tsp saffron strands
2 tbsp orange flower water
25g/1oz unsalted butter
1 tbsp sunflower oil
4 small shallots, trimmed and finely sliced
2.5cm/1in piece cinnamon stick
8 green cardamom pods
8 cloves
6 dried bay leaves
1 tbsp pine nuts
1 tbsp almonds, blanched, peeled and slivered
1 tbsp unsalted pistachios, blanched, peeled and slivered
1 tbsp unsalted cashews, halved
salt, to taste
1 litre/2 pints water

Preparation method

1. Wash the rice in several changes of water to remove the excess starch until the water runs clear. Cover with fresh water and set aside to soak. This produces fluffier, softer rice and ensures that each grain remains separate.
2. Crush the saffron lightly in a pestle and mortar, then pour over the orange flower water and set aside to soak.
3. Heat the butter and oil in a large lidded pan and fry the shallots over a high heat until dark brown and crisp. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper.
4. Lower the heat and fry the spices and nuts in the remaining fat for a few minutes until they begin to change colour.
5. Drain the rice and add to the pan along with the salt, saffron and orange flower water. Cook, stirring constantly, for a few minutes.
6. Pour in the water and bring to the boil, then reduce the heat, cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Allow to cool slightly.
7. To serve, fluff up the grains of rice with a fork and sprinkle over the shallots. Remove the whole spices before eating.

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