Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1/2 cup barberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
- 1/4 cup hot water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups water
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with a lid
- Small bowl
- Colander
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a colander and soak it in cold water for 30 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, dissolve the saffron threads in hot water and set aside.
3. In a large pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil and add the soaked rice and salt. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the rice is partially cooked.
4. Drain the rice in a colander and rinse it with cold water.
5. In the same pot, melt the butter and oil over medium heat. Add the sugar and stir until it dissolves.
6. Add the barberries and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are slightly softened.
7. Add half of the rice to the pot and mix well with the barberry mixture.
8. Add the saffron water and mix well.
9. Add the remaining rice and mix gently.
10. Cover the pot with a lid and cook over low heat for 30-40 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and the bottom is crispy.
Time:
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
Low heat
Serving size:
6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 400
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 400mg
Sugar: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use cranberries or currants instead of barberries.
- You can use ghee instead of butter.
- You can use olive oil instead of vegetable oil.
Variations:
- You can add sliced almonds or pistachios to the rice for extra crunch.
- You can add cooked chicken or lamb to the rice for a complete meal.
Tips and tricks:
- Soaking the rice in cold water helps to remove excess starch and makes it fluffy.
- Use a non-stick pot to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
- Fluff the rice with a fork before serving to separate the grains.
Storage instructions:
Store the leftover rice 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 platter and garnish with fresh herbs and pomegranate seeds.
Garnishes:
Fresh herbs, pomegranate seeds, sliced almonds, or pistachios.
Pairings:
This rice dish pairs well with grilled chicken or lamb kebabs.
Suggested side dishes:
Cucumber and tomato salad or roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the rice is too dry, add a splash of water and mix gently.
- If the rice is too wet, remove the lid and cook over low heat for a few more minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Wash your hands before handling food.
- Cook the rice to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any harmful bacteria.
Food history:
Shirin Polo is a traditional Persian rice dish that is usually served during special occasions such as weddings and holidays.
Flavor profiles:
This rice dish has a sweet and tangy flavor from the barberries and saffron, and a crispy texture from the bottom layer.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the rice with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream on top.
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Region: Iranian