Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups water
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Skillet
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 large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the pot and cook until browned on both sides.
4. Add the turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper to the pot and stir to coat the chicken.
5. Add 4 cups of water to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the chicken cook for 30 minutes.
6. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the raisins and slivered almonds and sauté until the almonds are golden brown and the raisins are plump.
7. Add the sugar to the skillet and stir until it dissolves.
8. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot with the chicken. Stir to combine.
9. Cover the pot with a lid and cook the rice and chicken over low heat for 30 minutes.
10. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 10 minutes.
11. Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving dish.
12. Top the rice with the chicken and sprinkle the raisins and almonds over the top.
Time:
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
5. Temperature:
Cook the chicken and rice over low heat.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 550mg
Sugar: 18g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use bone-in chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
- You can use dried cranberries or chopped apricots instead of raisins.
- You can use cashews or pistachios instead of almonds.
Variations:
- You can add chopped carrots and celery to the pot with the chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.
- You can add a pinch of saffron to the rice for a more authentic Persian flavor.
- You can use brown rice instead of basmati rice for a healthier option.
Tips and tricks:
- Soaking the rice helps to remove excess starch and makes it fluffier when cooked.
- Use a fork to fluff the rice instead of a spoon to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- You can add a dollop of plain yogurt on top of the chicken and rice for extra creaminess.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the chicken and rice in a large serving dish and sprinkle the raisins and almonds over the top for a colorful and festive presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or cilantro for added flavor and color.
Pairings:
Serve the chicken and rice with a side of cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing contrast to the warm and savory dish.
Suggested side dishes:
- Cucumber and tomato salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Naan bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the rice is too dry, add a splash of water and stir to combine.
- If the chicken is not cooked through after 30 minutes, continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Shirin Polo is a traditional Persian dish that is often served at weddings and other special occasions. It is known for its sweet and savory flavor profile and is typically made with saffron, raisins, and almonds.
Flavor profiles:
This dish has a sweet and savory flavor profile, with hints of cinnamon, turmeric, and sugar.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the chicken and rice family-style in a large serving dish and let everyone help themselves.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Iranian