Sabzi Polo (rice with herbs)

Sabzi Polo - Rice with Greens

Sabzi Polo is a traditional Iranian dish, a wonderful choice for rice and herb lovers. This dish is not only delicious but also offers an explosion of flavors and colors, making it an excellent option for festive meals or a weekend dinner. The total preparation time is approximately 1 hour, and the recipe is sufficient for 4 servings. Let’s discover together how to prepare this perfect rice with greens!

Ingredients:

- 400 g basmati rice
- 200 g fresh dill, chopped
- 100 g fresh parsley, chopped
- 100 g fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
- 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Wash the rice: Start by washing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is essential to remove excess starch, so the rice doesn’t become sticky. Let the rice soak in cold water for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the herbs: While the rice is soaking, finely chop the dill, parsley, and cilantro. These fresh herbs are essential for giving a vivid flavor to the Sabzi Polo. You can adjust the proportions to your personal preferences by adding more of your favorite herb.

3. Sauté the onion: In a large pan, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes golden and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Adding a teaspoon of turmeric will give the rice a beautiful hue and subtle flavor.

4. Cook the rice: In a large pot, add the drained rice and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Let the rice simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to allow the steam to work its magic.

5. Add the herbs: Once the rice is cooked, add the chopped herbs and gently mix with a spatula to incorporate. This step will ensure that the flavors blend perfectly and that every grain of rice is coated with greens.

6. Finish the dish: Cover the pot again and let the rice sit on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the rice to become fragrant. If you want a tangier taste, add a few tablespoons of lemon juice at this stage.

7. Serving: To serve Sabzi Polo, use a spatula to loosen the rice from the bottom of the pot and transfer it to a serving platter. This rice with greens pairs perfectly with fried fish or grilled meat, but can also be enjoyed on its own. Garnish with lemon slices and a fresh salad for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical tips:

- For an even richer texture and flavor, you can add some toasted almonds or nuts on top, providing a crunchy note to the dish.
- Experiment with other herbs, such as green onions or dried dill, depending on availability.
- You can prepare the rice in advance and reheat it before serving; just add a little water and cover to make it fluffy.

With these simple instructions, you will be able to prepare a delicious Sabzi Polo that will impress everyone at the table. Don't forget to enjoy every step of the cooking process and experiment with flavors to adapt it to your taste!

 Ingredients: 300 g basmati rice, 1 bunch of parsley, 1 bunch of marjoram, the stems from a bunch of green onions, 1 bunch of coriander, 1 teaspoon turmeric, finely chopped white onion, Lebanese pita, salt and pepper.