Saffron Rice with Dates (Khormah Polo) | Chopped

Ingredients

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, crushed
• 3 tablespoons hot water
• 1 cup pitted dates, halved
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, divided
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt, for rice water
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, for seasoning
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt