Saffron-Swirled Freekeh Pilaf with Toasted Almonds and Spring Peas

Saffron-Swirled Freekeh Pilaf with Toasted Almonds and Spring Peas

This aromatic Middle Eastern pilaf features nutty cracked freekeh infused with golden saffron threads, finished with crisp toasted almonds and sweet spring peas. A vibrant, wholesome dish that celebrates the fresh flavours of the season.

AI SCORE
92
/100

Saffron-Swirled Freekeh Pilaf with Toasted Almonds and Spring Peas

This aromatic Middle Eastern pilaf features nutty cracked freekeh infused with golden saffron threads, finished with crisp toasted almonds and sweet spring peas. A vibrant, wholesome dish that celebrates the fresh flavours of the season.

AI SCORE
92
/100
Middle EasternMainVegetarianVeganDairy-Free
โฑ๏ธ
50 min
Time
๐Ÿ‘ฅ
4 people
Servings
๐Ÿ”ฅ
385 kcal
Calories
๐Ÿ“Š
Easy
Difficulty

Ingredients

  • 200g cracked freekeh
  • 1 large pinch saffron threads (about 1/4 teaspoon)
  • 3 tablespoons warm water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 600ml vegetable stock
  • 150g fresh or frozen spring peas
  • 50g flaked almonds
  • 3 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1

Place saffron threads in a small bowl with 3 tablespoons warm water and set aside to bloom for 10 minutes.

2

Rinse the freekeh under cold water and drain well.

3

Toast the flaked almonds in a dry frying pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until golden. Remove and set aside.

4

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan or deep frying pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5-6 minutes until softened and translucent.

5

Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

6

Add the rinsed freekeh to the pan and stir to coat in the spiced oil for 1-2 minutes.

7

Pour in the vegetable stock and the bloomed saffron with its soaking liquid. Stir well to distribute the saffron evenly.

8

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the freekeh is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

9

Add the spring peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking, stirring them into the pilaf and covering again.

10

Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

11

Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh mint, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

12

Transfer to a serving dish and scatter the toasted almonds over the top. Serve warm.

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This recipe was generated by AI and verified before going live โ€” completeness, ratios, logic and prep time all checked.
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