Anti-Inflammatory Persian Jeweled Rice (with Pistachios & Almonds)
Description
Persian Jeweled Rice (Javaher Polow) is a fragrant, visually stunning rice dish traditionally served at celebrations. This anti-inflammatory version features basmati rice, pistachios, almonds, dried fruits, saffron, and aromatic spices—ingredients known for their antioxidant, heart-healthy, and anti-inflammatory properties.
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, rich in healthy fats, and perfect for anyone following a Mediterranean, anti-inflammatory, or plant-forward diet.
📝 Ingredients
For the Rice
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2 cups basmati rice
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4 cups water
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1 tsp sea salt
Anti-Inflammatory Toppings
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¼ cup raw pistachios, roughly chopped
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¼ cup raw almonds, whole or slivered
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⅓ cup barberries (or unsweetened dried cranberries)
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¼ cup golden raisins
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1 medium carrot, julienned
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1 small onion, thinly sliced
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3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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2 tbsp grass-fed butter or ghee (optional)
Spices & Aromatics
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½ tsp ground turmeric (powerful anti-inflammatory)
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¼ tsp cinnamon
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Pinch of cardamom
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Pinch of saffron threads, bloomed in warm water
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Fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped
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Orange zest (optional but traditional)
👩🍳 Instructions
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Prepare the Rice
Rinse basmati rice until water runs clear. Soak for 30 minutes. Boil with salted water until just tender (parboiled). Drain and set aside. -
Toast the Nuts
In a dry skillet, lightly toast pistachios and almonds until aromatic. Remove and reserve. -
Cook the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a pan. Sauté onions until golden and crispy. Add carrots, turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom. Cook gently. -
Bloom the Saffron
Add bloomed saffron and orange zest to the pan for fragrance and color. -
Add Dried Fruits
Stir in barberries and raisins; cook briefly until plump. -
Assemble the Rice
Layer rice with the nut-fruit mixture. Steam gently for 15–20 minutes. -
Garnish & Serve
Top with toasted nuts, herbs, and optional crispy onion strands.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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Pair with grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or lentil stew
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Serve alongside Greek yogurt with cucumber
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Ideal for holiday dinners, anti-inflammatory meal prep, or plant-based entertaining
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Garnish with extra pistachios for visual appeal & healthy fats
🔄 Variations
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Vegan & Dairy-Free: Use olive oil only
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Low-Sugar: Skip raisins, add more herbs
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Protein-Boosted: Add chickpeas or lentils
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Keto-Inspired: Serve over cauliflower rice with same toppings
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Ayurvedic-Friendly: Add ginger and cumin
🧠 Nutrition Benefits (Per Serving – Approx.)
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Calories: ~380
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Protein: 9g
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Healthy Fats: 14g
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Fiber: 4g
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Rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, magnesium, vitamin E
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Supports gut health, heart health, joint inflammation reduction
Key Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients:
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Pistachios (polyphenols, lutein)
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Almonds (vitamin E, monounsaturated fats)
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Turmeric (curcumin)
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Olive oil (oleocanthal)
❓ Related Questions (SEO-Friendly)
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Is pistachio rice anti-inflammatory?
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What are the health benefits of almonds and pistachios?
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Can jeweled rice be made vegan?
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Best anti-inflammatory rice recipes
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Is basmati rice healthier than white rice?
🌟 Final Thoughts
This anti-inflammatory pistachio & almond rice is more than a recipe—it’s a functional food packed with healing spices, heart-healthy fats, and culinary tradition. Perfect for anyone looking to combine wellness, flavor, and visual elegance, this dish proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring.
