Hello, dear food lovers! 🌟
Today, I bring you the recipe for Tahçin, one of the legendary flavours of Iranian cuisine. Imagine the enchanting aroma of saffron, the velvety texture of the yoghurt mixture and the dazzling golden yellow colour... A true feast for the senses! What's more, it's much easier to make than you might think. Let's head to the kitchen and prepare this delicious dish together.
Ingredients for Tahchin
For the rice:
- 2 cups basmati rice (jasmine rice can also be used)
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the yoghurt mixture:
- 1 teaspoon saffron
- 2 tablespoons hot water
- 1 cup yoghurt
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon turmeric (optional, great for enhancing the colour)
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the topping:
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds or walnuts (whichever you prefer!)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How to make Tahçin
1️⃣ Let the Saffron Awaken To get the best aroma and colour from the saffron, first crush a teaspoon of saffron in a mortar, then steep it in 2 tablespoons of hot water. This will form the heart of the Tahçin! 💛
2️⃣ Cook the rice Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly in plenty of water to remove the starch. Add salt to boiling water and cook the rice for 7-8 minutes. It should be half-cooked, as it will finish cooking perfectly in the oven.
3️⃣ Prepare the Yogurt MixtureNow we’re getting to the tasty part. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, egg yolks, butter, turmeric, and salt until smooth. Add the saffron water to create a delicious mixture. Then, add the cooked rice to the mixture and mix well.
4️⃣ Place in the Baking DishGrease a baking dish with butter. Spread half of the mixture on the bottom of the dish, then press the remaining rice firmly on top. This is where the golden, crispy layer will form!
5️⃣ Bake in the oven Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for approximately 30-40 minutes. The bottom should be crispy and the top lightly browned.
6️⃣ Final Touch and Serving Carefully flip the pilaf onto a serving plate. Sprinkle lightly toasted raisins and almonds over the top. Here it is—delicious Tahçin!
What Goes Well with It?
You can serve Tahçin with yoghurt, salad, or pomegranate seeds.
If you want a more impressive presentation, enriching it with chicken or vegetables is also a great idea.
Yes, I can already smell the pure saffron aroma wafting from your kitchen. 💛 Don't forget to share your comments after trying this unique Iranian pilaf. Bon appétit! 🥰