Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 2 oranges
- 1 cup slivered almonds
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 cups water
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Zester or grater
- Large bowl
- Skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes.
2. Zest the oranges and set aside. Cut the oranges into small pieces and remove any seeds.
3. In a large pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked rice and salt. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. In a skillet, melt the butter and vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds and raisins. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the almonds are golden brown.
5. Add the orange zest, orange pieces, sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sugar has dissolved.
6. Add the almond and orange mixture to the pot of rice. Stir gently to combine.
7. Cover the pot with a lid and cook on low heat for 30 minutes.
8. After 30 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit for 10 minutes.
9. Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer to a serving dish.
Time:
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
Low heat
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 400
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 56g
Protein: 7g
Sodium: 400mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- White rice can be used instead of basmati rice.
- Cashews or pistachios can be used instead of almonds.
- Dried cranberries or apricots can be used instead of raisins.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or lamb to the rice for a complete meal.
- Use orange juice instead of water for a stronger orange flavor.
- Add saffron to the rice for a more traditional Persian flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Soaking the rice before cooking helps to remove excess starch and results in fluffier rice.
- Be gentle when stirring the rice to avoid breaking the grains.
- Use a non-stick pot to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
Storage Instructions:
Leftover rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the rice in a large bowl or on a platter. Garnish with additional slivered almonds and orange slices.
Garnishes:
- Slivered almonds
- Orange slices
- Fresh parsley or cilantro
Pairings:
- Grilled chicken or lamb
- Roasted vegetables
- Greek salad
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Hummus and pita bread
- Tzatziki sauce
- Baba ganoush
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the rice is too dry, add a splash of water and stir gently.
- If the rice is too wet, remove the lid and cook on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before handling food.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
Shirin Polo is a traditional Persian dish that is typically served during special occasions such as weddings and holidays.
Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a sweet and savory flavor with hints of orange, cinnamon, and cardamom.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the rice as a main dish or as a side dish with grilled meat or vegetables.
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Region: Persian