Jeweled Saffron & Cardamom Rice with Sultanas, Pomegranate & Almond Slivers

For a long time, I’ve been craving a Persian-style jeweled rice with colorful bites of fruit and nuts and savory spices. I adapted this dish from a recipe in The Spice Merchant’s Daughter, a book I treasure for its beautifully alluring, always aromatic, and surprisingly simple recipes. Since the whole family devoured this alongside the Lemon, Saffron & Paprika Roasted Chicken Thighs, I think I need to make this again — soon.

Sweet Coconut Sticky Rice with Mangoes

Thai sticky rice with mangoes is one of the most heavenly desserts, is it not? I’ve always assumed it would be difficult to make, but I came across Mark Bittman’s recipe and had to try it.

Love, Part I: Vanilla-Saffron Risotto and Pan-Seared Scallops

About 15 years ago I read a food essay in the New York Times about a man wanting to impress his girlfriend by making a romantic dinner. He chose to make risotto for her, and in his essay he described so vividly and passionately each step in the cooking process that it changed my whole outlook on making food for people.