In an unassuming strip center just off of North Oak Trafficway, the best cuisine of Jordan is being served by husband and wife team, Mohamed and Kholoud al Bataineh. Queen Sweets and Bakery is known for their shwarma and mashawi platters, full of spice and flavor. Here, they share the secrets to their famous saffron rice. More than just a simple carb, Kholoud's family recipe packs layers of flavor into each grain.
Mashawi is the term for grilled meats, in this case, chicken, beef and a ground mixture of beef and lamb. Enjoy them atop Kholoud's Saffron Rice.
Saffron Rice
- 1 cup of saffron rice
- 1 cup of chicken stock
- 1 cup of water
- 1 teaspoon saffron
- .25 Teaspoon black peppers
- 1/8 cup minced onions
- 1 teaspoon mixed pepper corn
- 1/8 cup whole coriander seeds
- .5 cup Ghee butter
- 1 tablespoon salt
Boil water in a large pot. Add all spices with the ghee butter and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Add rice and let it cook on high heat till the water and stock level match to tip of the rice. Lower heat to low and cover the pot with foil for another 15 minutes. Take the cover off, turn the heat off and stir the rice. Lastly put a lid back on so the rice can rest for another 5 minutes. Serve.
Check out Queen Sweets and Bakery at 4107 N. Cherry Street, Kansas City, Mo.