Persian Quinoa with Tadig
This recipe is based on Reyna Simnegar's Sweet Rice with Orange and Carrots, made with quinoa so that it can be made for Passover and a healthy option any time. I made it with a layer of potatoes the first time, but if you want a crispier layer leave them out. Anyways, my kids fight over them, so it is better to make a separate batch of crispy thin potatoes.
- Duration
- Cook Time
- Prep Time
- 8-10Servings
Ingredients
For the quiona
- 3 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 8 cup water
- 2 tablespoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil, such as Colavita
For the orange and carrots
- 2 cup water
- ¾ cup slivered orange peel
- 1 cup slivered carrots
- 2 cup sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon cardamom
- ¾ cup slivered almonds
To steam and make tadig
- Extra virgin olive oil, such as Colavita
- 2 tablespoon water
- pinch of saffron threads
- 2 potatoes, sliced into ¼-inch rounds (optional)
Preparation
To cook the quinoa and make the topping:
1, Fill a 6 quart saucepan with 8 cups water. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Meanwhile, fill a small pan with 2 cups of water, slivered orange peel, carrots, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
3, When the large pot of water comes to a boil, add salt, turmeric, and quinoa and cook uncovered for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4, Turn off the heat and drain.
5. Drain the orange peel/carrot mixture and stir into the quinoa with the spices and nuts.
6. Place the empty 6-quart pot over medium heat. Once hot, add 1/4 inch evoo and 2 tablespoons water. Add saffron and stir. Add potatoes in a single layer then top with par cooked quinoa and shape it into a pyramid.
7. Cover the pot and cook for 5 minutes until the pot begins to steam. Uncover, place 2 paper towels on top and cover with lid. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered for 45 minutes. Turn off heat and serve on a shallow platter mounding the quinoa into a pyramid and garnish with the crispy tadig.
Note: Some of these spices may be considered kitniyot, check with your local Rabbi, you can leave them out if needed for Passover.
