Zereshk Polo

Zereshk Polo is a Persian rice dish prepared with saffron-infused rice, barberries, and chicken, cooked together for a flavorful meal.

Ingredients

IngredientQty.Unit
Basmati Rice (rinsed and soaked)3Cup
Chicken Breast (cut into pieces)800Grams
Barberries (rinsed)1Cup
Onion (finely chopped)1Count
Saffron (ground and dissolved in 2 tbsp warm water)1Tsp
Butter (unsalted)100Grams
Sugar2Tbsp
Salt2Tsp
Black Pepper (ground)1Tsp
Turmeric1Tsp
Vegetable Oil3Tbsp
Water (for cooking rice)6Cup

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil. Add 2 teaspoons of salt and the soaked rice. Cook until the rice is al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add the chicken pieces to the onions, along with turmeric, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
  4. In a small pan, melt 50 grams of butter. Add the barberries and sugar, and sauté for a few minutes until the barberries are plump.
  5. In a large pot, layer the rice, chicken mixture, and barberries. Drizzle the saffron water over the top.
  6. Cover the pot with a lid wrapped in a clean towel to catch moisture. Cook on low heat for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Before serving, gently fluff the rice and mix the layers. Serve warm.

Prep

  • Soak basmati rice in water for at least 2 hours before cooking.

Kitchen equipment

Saffron GrinderLarge Pot With LidSmall Pan