Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey fit for Persian royalty with the legendary Shahee Polo Kings Rice! This exquisite dish isn't just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors, textures, and centuries-old culinary traditions that will transport your taste buds to the lavish courts of ancient Iran. Imagine a rice dish so magnificent that it was once reserved only for kings and nobles, now brought to life in your very own kitchen!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 90 mins
Cuisine: Persian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1/2 cup lentils
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup saffron water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in salted water for 30 minutes to improve texture and cooking quality.
- Prepare the saffron water by grinding a pinch of saffron threads and dissolving them in 1/4 cup of warm water. Let it steep to release the rich golden color and aromatic flavor.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion until golden brown and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add lentils to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add the soaked rice and cook partially for about 7-8 minutes until the rice is slightly tender but still firm.
- Drain the rice in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a heavy-bottomed pot, create a layer of oil and spread a thin layer of rice. Alternate layers of rice, lentils, raisins, and slivered almonds.
- Drizzle the saffron water over the layers to create a beautiful golden color and add depth of flavor.
- Cover the pot with a clean kitchen towel and then the lid to trap steam. Cook on low heat for 45-50 minutes.
- When done, gently fold the rice to mix the layers without breaking the grains. Serve hot, garnished with additional almonds and raisins.
Tips
- Rice Quality Matters: Always use high-quality basmati rice and rinse it thoroughly to remove excess starch.
- Saffron Secrets: Grind saffron threads finely and steep in warm water to extract maximum color and flavor.
- Layering is Key: Take your time creating beautiful, even layers for the most authentic presentation.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Use the lowest heat setting when creating the final rice layer to prevent burning.
- Steam Trapping Technique: The kitchen towel under the lid helps create the perfect steamed texture.
- Gentle Mixing: When serving, fold the rice gently to preserve the delicate grain structure.
- Timing is Crucial: Don't overcook the initial rice boiling - aim for just slightly tender.
- Optional Garnish: Consider adding a sprinkle of extra slivered almonds and raisins for added texture and visual appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
