Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
1 cup basmati rice
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
1 tbsp olive oil
Add the drained rice and sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring gently until the grains are lightly coated and aromatic.
Add the saffron threads, salt, pepper and broth. Stir once to combine.
¼ tsp saffron threads, 1/8 tsp Pepper powder, Salt to taste, 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Halfway through cooking, open the lid briefly and gently mix the rice once so that the upper layer moves down and cooks evenly. Cover again immediately to retain steam.
Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam.
Gently fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the chopped pistachios and orange zest.
¼ cup pistachios, ½ tsp orange zest
Top with fresh coriander or parsley leaves before serving for a burst of colour and freshness.
Fresh coriander or parsley leaves
Serve warm as a fragrant side dish to grilled meats, seafood, or vegetable curries.