Rice > Iranian

Date and Cardamom Shirin Polo Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped dates
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup pistachios
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/2 tsp saffron threads
- Salt to taste

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Small bowl
- Fork
- Serving dish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in cold water for 30 minutes.

2. In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in 1/4 cup of hot water.

3. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked rice and salt to taste. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the rice is partially cooked.

4. Drain the rice and rinse with cold water.

5. In the same pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped dates, slivered almonds, pistachios, raisins, and dried cranberries. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the nuts are lightly toasted.

6. Add the sugar, ground cardamom, and saffron water to the pot. Stir until the sugar dissolves.

7. Add the partially cooked rice to the pot and stir until the rice is coated with the nut and date mixture.

8. Cover the pot with a lid and cook over low heat for 30-40 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked.

9. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.

10. Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving dish.

11. Garnish with additional slivered almonds, pistachios, and dried cranberries.


Time:
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
Low heat
Serving size:
4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 450
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 68g
Protein: 7g
Sodium: 10mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 30g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Brown sugar can be substituted for white sugar
- Cashews can be substituted for pistachios
- Golden raisins can be substituted for regular raisins

Variations:
- Add 1/2 tsp of ground cinnamon for a spicier flavor
- Use dried apricots instead of dates
- Add 1/4 cup of pomegranate seeds for a pop of color

Tips and Tricks:
- Soaking the rice before cooking helps to remove excess starch and results in fluffier rice.
- Use a fork to fluff the rice instead of a spoon to prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
- Toasting the nuts and dried fruit before adding the rice enhances their flavor.

Storage Instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
To reheat, place the rice in a microwave-safe dish and microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the Date and Cardamom Shirin Polo on a large platter and garnish with additional nuts and dried fruit.

Garnishes:
Slivered almonds, pistachios, and dried cranberries

Pairings:
- Grilled chicken or lamb
- Roasted vegetables
- Greek yogurt with honey

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Cucumber and tomato salad
- Hummus and pita bread
- Lentil soup

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the rice is too dry, add a splash of water and stir until the rice is moistened.
- If the rice is too wet, remove the lid and cook over low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the recipe.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.

Food History:
Shirin Polo is a traditional Persian rice dish that is typically served during special occasions such as weddings and holidays.

Flavor Profiles:
The Date and Cardamom Shirin Polo is a sweet and nutty dish with hints of cardamom and saffron.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Date and Cardamom Shirin Polo as a main dish or as a side dish with grilled meat or vegetables.

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Region: Iranian

Taste: Sweet, Aromatic, Nutty, Spicy