Zereshk Polo with chicken Recipe
Introduction to Zereshk Polo with Chicken
Zereshk Polo is a traditional Persian dish that combines fragrant basmati rice with barberries and saffron, often served with chicken. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a favorite for special occasions.
Ingredients
To prepare Zereshk Polo with chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Rice:
- 3 cups basmati rice
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron
- 3 tablespoons butter or oil
- 1 cup barberries (zereshk)
- Salt to taste
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken (thighs or pieces)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons oil (for frying)
- Optional: spices like turmeric or cinnamon for additional flavor
Cooking Instructions for Zereshk Polo
Prepare the Rice:
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. Add the soaked rice and cook until it’s al dente (about 5-7 minutes). Drain the rice and set aside.
Prepare the Barberries:
- Rinse the barberries in cold water and drain. In a small pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the barberries for a couple of minutes until they plump up. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Brown the chicken on both sides for about 5 minutes each 1 2.
- Once browned, you can add spices like turmeric for extra flavor. Add a little water to the pan, cover, and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through (about 20-30 minutes).
Combine Rice and Barberries:
- In a large pot, layer half of the cooked rice, then sprinkle half of the sautéed barberries on top. Add the remaining rice and top with the rest of the barberries.
- Dissolve the saffron in a few tablespoons of hot water and drizzle it over the rice. Cover the pot with a lid and let it steam on low heat for about 20 minutes.
Serve:
Once the rice is fluffy and aromatic, serve it on a platter with the chicken arranged on top or on the side. Garnish with additional barberries if desired.
Enjoy Your Meal!
Zereshk Polo with chicken is a tasty dish. It combines the tangy taste of barberries with the fragrant scent of saffron. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Enjoy your cooking!
You can enjoy Zereshk Polo at many Persian restaurants in the U.S. Besides making it at home, these restaurants offer this dish. The Iranian Business Center lists all Persian restaurants in the US. They serve Zereshk Polo and other tasty Persian meals.
At the Iranian Business Center, we specialize in connecting you with the right Iranian businesses to meet your specific needs
Join our community and stay updated on the Iranian Business Center by following us on Instagram!