Saffron is steeped in water because the liquid will help extract the flavor of the saffron and properly infuse the rice.
Ingredients
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2 pinches saffron, crumbled
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¼ cup boiling water
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1 cup basmati rice
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Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Description
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Steep saffron:
In a small bowl, combine the saffron and boiling water and steep for 5 minutes.
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Rinse rice and bring to a boil:
Meanwhile, rinse the rice under cold water. Place the rice, 1 3/4 cups water, and saffron in a pot and bring to a boil.
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Simmer rice:
Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes, until all the liquid is absorbed.
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Serve rice:
Remove from the heat and let sit, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork, season with salt and pepper, and serve.
