Saffron and Spice Infused Chicken with Barberry Rice
A vibrant and flavorful dish combining succulent chicken, a blend of spices, and sweet-tart barberries served with basmati rice.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 6 pieces bone-in chicken (drumsticks or thighs) Choose chicken pieces that absorb flavors well.
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1.75 teaspoons turmeric
- 1 dash cinnamon
- 1 dash nutmeg
- 1 dash cardamom
- 1 dash cumin
- 1 dash coriander
- 1 dash chili powder Adjust based on spice preference.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2.5 cups chicken stock
- 0.25 teaspoon ground saffron For the saffron water preparation.
For the Rice and Barberries
- 1.5 cups dry basmati rice Fluffy basmati rice pairs well.
- 0.33 cup dried barberries Can substitute with dried cranberries or raisins.
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
For the Salad
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 0.5 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
Instructions
Making the Saffron Water
- Sprinkle the saffron over an ice cube in a small dish and set aside.
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken pieces with the spice mix and brown them.
- Add the chopped onions and cook until they turn golden.
- Stir in minced garlic, remaining spices, tomato paste, saffron water, and chicken stock.
- Simmer uncovered on low heat for about four hours, or until chicken is tender.
Preparing the Rice and Barberries
- Cook basmati rice according to package directions.
- In a separate pan, heat butter, then add barberries and sugar, cooking for 30 seconds.
- Mix some cooked rice with the barberry mixture and reserved saffron water.
Making the Salad
- Combine diced cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion in a bowl.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and add fresh mint.
Serving
- Layer the saffron-infused rice in a serving dish and top with barberry rice.
- Serve chicken alongside the rice with salad and garnish with fresh herbs.
Notes
For deeper flavor, marinate chicken overnight. Pomegranate seeds can be added for color and sweetness. Serve with yogurt sauce or warm bread.