Saffron-Spiced Whole Roast Chicken

In a mixing bowl, crush the saffron strands, add the ghee or butter and mix well. Divide this saffron ghee between two bowls. Set one bowl aside to use for basting the chicken during roasting.

Place the chicken on a large plate and, starting at the neck end, ease the skin away from the flesh. Spread the saffron ghee from the second bowl under and over the skin.

In a separate bowl, combine the yoghurt, almonds, chilli powder, cardamom, cinnamon, garlic and ginger pastes. Season to taste. Spread this marinade over the chicken and leave to marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.

Preheat the oven to 180°C fan (400°F/Gas 6). Line a roasting tray with foil and place a wire rack over the tray. Sit the chicken breast side up on the wire rack. The tray will collect all the juices from the chicken as it cooks. Place the tray in the hot oven and roast the chicken for 45 minutes.

Baste the chicken with the reserved saffron ghee, then turn the chicken over so it is breast side down and continue to roast for a further 50 minutes. Once the chicken is cooked through and the juices are running clear, turn off the oven. Transfer the chicken to a large serving plate. As you lift the chicken, let any juices from the cavity pour into the roasting tray – you can use these juices to make a light gravy. Cover the chicken loosely with foil and leave to rest in a warm place for 20-30 minutes.

Carve the chicken and arrange the pieces on a serving platter. Serve warm with spiced vegetables or salads.