Saffron Orzo
Author: 
Recipe type: Pasta, Side
Prep time: 
Cook time: 
Total time: 
 
Easy, different, and colorful. Pairs well with anything!
Ingredients
  • 1.5 c orzo
  • 2 c low-sodium chicken broth or stock {or vegetable stock}
  • pinch of saffron threads (less than 10)
  • extra virgin olive oil
  • freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat the orzo over medium-high heat until it starts to brown, stirring or shaking so it does not burn. Continue until the majority of the orzo is toasted. Remove the orzo from the skillet into a bowl (you are not adding anything else to the bowl, just moving the orzo for a few minutes).
  2. Bring the chicken broth or stock to a boil in the skillet over high heat.
  3. Remove the skillet from the heat, add the saffron, and let it steep for a few minutes.
  4. Return the skillet to high heat just until the liquid boils. Add the toasted orzo and reduce the heat to medium.
  5. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo absorbs the liquid, about 8-10 minutes. Keep stirring to make sure the orzo does not stick to the skillet.
  6. When the orzo has absorbed almost all of the liquid, try a few pieces. It should be "al dente" (firm) like pasta. If it is too firm (for example, it crunches), add a few tablespoons of water and turn the heat up for a minute until the new liquid is absorbed. Repeat if necessary until it has the texture of pasta and all the liquid is absorbed.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in a bit of olive oil - 1 or 2 T - and season with pepper.
Recipe by My Utensil Crock at http://www.myutensilcrock.com/2013/05/28/saffron-orzo/