Timman Z'affaran
Iraqi Saffron Rice with Meat
Timman Z'affaran is a fragrant and visually stunning Iraqi saffron rice dish, often prepared with a savory meat mixture. The rice is infused with the delicate aroma and golden hue of saffron, making it a celebratory centerpiece.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 1 tsp Saffron threads
- 2 tbsp Rose water
- 4 tbsp Vegetable oil or ghee
- 300 g Ground lamb or beef
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Baharat spice blend
- 0.5 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp Ground allspice
- 1.5 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- 0.25 cup Raisins(optional)
- 3 cups Chicken or beef stock
- 0.25 cup Slivered almonds(toasted, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain well.
- 2
In a small bowl, crush the saffron threads and mix with rose water. Let it steep for at least 15 minutes.
- 3
Heat 2 tbsp of oil or ghee in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds and toast until golden brown. Remove and set aside for garnish.
- 4
In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tbsp of oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and the juices have evaporated.
- 5
Stir in the minced garlic, baharat, cinnamon, allspice, 1 tsp salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the raisins, if using, and cook for another minute.
- 6
In a separate pot, heat 1 tbsp of oil or ghee over medium-high heat. Add the drained rice and sauté for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted and translucent.
- 7
Pour in the chicken or beef stock and bring to a boil. Stir in the saffron-rose water mixture and the remaining 0.5 tsp salt. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- 8
Gently fold the meat mixture into the cooked rice. Cover and let it steam for 5-10 minutes off the heat.
- 9
Serve the rice on a platter, topped with the meat mixture and garnished with toasted slivered almonds.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the rice is thoroughly drained after soaking to prevent mushy rice.
- ✓Don't skip toasting the almonds; it adds a crucial nutty flavor and texture.
- ✓The quality of saffron significantly impacts the color and aroma of the dish.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more toasted nuts and raisins, or sautéed vegetables like peas and carrots.
- Some recipes include cardamom pods or bay leaves in the rice cooking liquid for added aroma.