How to Make Saffron Chicken with Plums: A Delicious and Elegant Dish
Saffron Chicken with Plums Recipe
Saffron chicken with plums is a popular and elegant dish that combines the exquisite flavors of saffron and the sweetness of plums. This dish is a true delight for the taste buds, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory. In this article, we will show you how to prepare saffron chicken with plums, an upgraded version of the simple saffron chicken we discussed previously in the Kalleh book.
Ingredients for Saffron Chicken with Plums
- 500 grams of chicken (breast or thigh, as desired)
- 250 grams of dried plums
- 1 medium-sized onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Required amount of brewed saffron
- Salt, black pepper, turmeric (as needed)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (optional)
Steps to Prepare Saffron Chicken with Plums
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
The first step in preparing saffron chicken with plums is to clean the chicken. Next, chop or grate the onion and sauté it in oil until golden. Add the grated garlic and sauté for a little longer. Then, add the chicken pieces and sauté until their color changes slightly. Finally, add the brewed saffron and mix well. Once the chicken is coated with saffron, add water and let it cook over low heat for 20 to 25 minutes.
Step 2: Adding Plums and Final Cooking
Once the chicken is partially cooked, add the dried plums that you’ve soaked in water and softened. Add the sugar and the water from soaking the plums to the chicken. Let it cook for a few more minutes so the flavors meld together. After 20 minutes, your saffron chicken with plums is ready. You can serve it with saffron rice or bread. Enjoy!
Tip:
You can serve this dish with various Persian rice dishes, such as zereshk polo (barberry rice) or sabzi polo (herbed rice).
Additional Tips for Perfect Saffron Chicken with Plums
Now that you’re familiar with the steps to make saffron chicken with plums, it’s worth noting that like any dish, there are specific tips and techniques that can make it even better. Following these tips can enhance the flavor and presentation of your dish, making it more impressive. To create a professional and delicious saffron chicken, be sure to consider these helpful suggestions.
Choosing the Right Chicken for Saffron Chicken
Both chicken breast and thighs are suitable for making saffron chicken. However, if you use chicken breast, it’s best to add some butter or clarified butter to prevent it from becoming too dry.
The Best Type of Plum for Saffron Chicken Stew
For making saffron chicken with plums, dried sour plums (also known as “Aloo Bokhara”) are a better choice. This type of plum has a sweet-tart flavor, which balances the dish perfectly. The tartness of these plums complements the sweetness of saffron and the chicken, creating a unique flavor combination.
- Aloo Bokhara: Tart and tangy, ideal for balancing the dish’s taste.
- Aloo Qeysi: A sweeter variety, which may overpower the dish’s balance.
While Aloo Qeysi can also be used, it’s important to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe or omit it altogether to prevent the dish from becoming too sweet. If you choose Aloo Qeysi, adding a little lemon juice will help balance the flavors.
Using Sugar in Saffron Chicken with Plums
The addition of sugar in saffron chicken with plums is optional. If you decide to use sugar, adjust the amount to suit your taste. If you prefer a more tangy flavor, you can add a little lemon juice to the dish.
Garnishing Saffron Chicken with Plums
For garnish, you can use slivered almonds or pistachios that have been lightly fried in oil, along with sautéed barberries (zereshk) to add color and flavor to the dish.
Conclusion: A Delicious and Elegant Dish for Any Occasion
Saffron chicken with plums is a flavorful and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of saffron, plums, and chicken creates a delicious meal that will impress your guests. Follow the tips and techniques mentioned in this guide, and you’ll be able to prepare a saffron chicken dish that’s full of flavor and beauty.
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