Almond-Infused Persian Shirin Polo with Orange Peel and Saffron

Name: Almond-Infused Persian Shirin Polo with Orange Peel and Saffron
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 3 cups basmati rice; 6 cups water; 1/4 cup slivered almonds; 1/4 cup dried orange peel; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads; 2 tablespoons warm water; 1/4 cup rose water; 1/4 cup sliced pistachios; 1 tablespoon butter or clarified butter (ghee); 1 teaspoon ground cardamom; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

A fragrant and sweet rice dish with vibrant Middle Eastern flavors

Shirin Polo is a traditional Persian rice dish known for its aromatic flavor and beautiful presentation. With saffron, almonds, and orange peel, it offers a delicate balance of sweetness and savory spiciness.

1 h 45 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Rice Base

3 cups basmati rice

rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes

6 cups water

For the Sweet Infusion

1/4 cup slivered almonds

soaked overnight

1/4 cup dried orange peel

thinly sliced

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon saffron threads

crushed

2 tablespoons warm water

1/4 cup rose water

For the Garnish

1/4 cup sliced pistachios

1 tablespoon butter or clarified butter (ghee)

For the Spices

1 teaspoon ground cardamom

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preparation

Marinating the Saffron

Steep Saffron

Dissolve the crushed saffron in 2 tablespoons of warm water.

Release Aroma

Let it steep for 10 minutes to release its vibrant color and aroma.

Preparing the Sweet Infusion

Combine Ingredients

In a small saucepan, combine sugar and 1/4 cup water over medium heat.

Dissolve Sugar

Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

Simmer with Flavors

Add orange peel and simmer for 5 minutes, then add slivered almonds and rose water.

Important: Do not let the sugar caramelize; the mixture should remain clear and syrupy. Pro Tip: Use a non-stick saucepan to prevent sticking and burning.

Cooking Process

Boiling the Rice

Bring 6 cups of water to a boil, add the soaked rice, and cook for 7-8 minutes until partially cooked.

Steeping the Saffron Mixture

Combine the steeped saffron with the sweet infusion and spices.

Layering and Steaming

In a large pot, layer rice alternately with the sweet saffron nut mixture. Cover and cook on low heat for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Plating & Serving