Herb Rice (Persian Sabzi Polo) with Tortilla Tahdig
Herb Rice (Persian Sabzi Polo) with Tortilla Tahdig features fluffy basmati infused with saffron and layered with heaps of fresh parsley, dill, cilantro, and chives for a bright, aromatic bite. A clever tortilla tahdig forms a crisp, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender grains. Serve it alongside fish or roasted meats for a festive dinner or as a standout centerpiece at springtime gatherings.
- Prep20 min
- Cook1 hr 15 min
- Serves6
- DifficultyMedium
- 1
To bloom saffron, sprinkle the saffron over a few ice cubes in a small bowl; let it sit at room temperature until the ice fully melts, about 45 minutes.
- 2
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon salt and return to a boil. Add the rice; return to a boil and cook until the rice is slightly firm, about 4 minutes. Drain the rice and transfer it to a large bowl. Dry the pot.
- 3
Stir the chopped parsley, chives, dill, cilantro, cumin, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt into the rice.
- 4
Heat the oil in the pot over medium heat. Sprinkle the sesame seeds and turmeric over the oil. Place the tortilla on top, then add the rice mixture. Remove any loose, papery outer layers from the garlic bulbs; nestle the bulbs into the rice mixture. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke five holes in the rice to let steam escape.
- 5
Cover the pot with a clean kitchen towel, then place the lid on top. Cook, covered, over medium heat until steam begins to escape, about 10 minutes.
- 6
Stir the ghee into the bloomed saffron in a small bowl; pour the mixture over the rice. Reduce the heat to low. Cook, covered, until the rice is tender and the garlic is softened, 30 to 40 minutes. Remove the garlic; let it cool until easy to handle, then peel each clove. Place a serving platter upside down over the pot and carefully invert the rice onto the platter. The tortilla tahdig will be on top.
- Calories 494.81 kcal High
- Protein 7.08 g Moderate
- Carbs 69.17 g Moderate
- Total Fat 19.79 g High
- Saturated Fat 7.29 g High
- Trans Fat 0.0 g Low Source
- Cholesterol 20.89 mg Moderate
- Sodium 139.54 mg Moderate
- Fiber 2.69 g Low Source
- Sugar 1.52 g Low Source
- Added Sugar 0.17 g Low Source
- Calcium 250.61 mg Moderate
- Iron 3.19 mg Moderate
- Potassium 296.03 mg Low Source
- Vitamin A 164.97 mcg_rae Moderate
- Vitamin C 64.83 mg Good Source
- Vitamin D 0.0 mcg Low Source
Values are per serving. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
- Citrus 🍊
- Milk 🥛
- Wheat 🌾
- Gluten
- Sesame
- Garlic 🧄
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