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Almond and Pistachio Zereshk Polo
Created by: Howcan Team
Ingredients
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon ground saffron
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup dried barberries (zereshk)
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- Salt to taste
- Water
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, soak the rice in water for 30 minutes.
- In a small bowl, dissolve the ground saffron in 2 tablespoons of hot water and set aside.
- In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked and drained rice to the boiling water and cook for 6-7 minutes, or until the rice is parboiled. Drain the rice and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the melted butter and mix well.
- Add a layer of parboiled rice to the pot, then sprinkle half of the dissolved saffron over the rice. Repeat with another layer of rice and the remaining saffron.
- Cover the pot with a clean kitchen towel and a lid. Cook over low heat for 45 minutes to allow the rice to steam and fully cook.
- In a small pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the dried barberries and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they plump up.
- In a separate pan, toast the slivered almonds and chopped pistachios over low heat until lightly golden and fragrant.
- Once the rice is cooked, gently fluff it with a fork to mix in the saffron layers. Transfer the rice to a serving platter and sprinkle the sautéed barberries, toasted almonds, and pistachios on top.
- Serve the Almond and Pistachio Zereshk Polo as a delicious and flavorful side dish or main course.
Zereshk Polo, a traditional Persian dish, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. This flavorful rice dish is infused with saffron, barberries (zereshk), and a blend of aromatic spices. The addition of almonds and pistachios adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, elevating the dish to new heights. In the bustling kitchens of Iran, skilled chefs meticulously prepare Zereshk Polo, infusing it with their culinary expertise and passion for creating exquisite flavors. The dish is a staple in Persian cuisine, often served during festive occasions and family gatherings. Today, the best versions of Zereshk Polo can be found in authentic Persian restaurants, where chefs honor traditional recipes and use high-quality ingredients. Achieving the perfect balance of flavors is crucial, with the tartness of the barberries complementing the richness of the nuts and saffron-infused rice. For those seeking an alternative method, some chefs incorporate a layering technique, creating a visually stunning presentation known as "tahdig," where the crispy bottom layer of the rice adds a delightful contrast to the tender grains. When preparing Zereshk Polo at home, sourcing premium barberries, saffron, and nuts is essential to capture the dish's authentic essence. The careful balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors, along with the textural contrast from the almonds and pistachios, is key to creating a memorable Zereshk Polo experience.
80 min
6
380 calories
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