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Persian Saffron Rice with Barberries & Pistachios (Zereshk Polo)

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Basmati rice fragranced with saffron and subtly sweet barberries, garnished with pistachios and almonds—an iconic Persian side dish known for its color, aroma, and exquisite balance of tart and savory flavors.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1/4 tsp saffron threads
  • 2 tbsp hot water (for blooming saffron)
  • 1/2 cup dried barberries (zereshk), rinsed and soaked
  • 2 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance barberries’ tartness)
  • 2–3 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional)
  • 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • Optional: 1/2 tsp turmeric (for rice)
  • Optional: 2 tbsp rosewater (for aromatic finish)

Instructions

  1. Rinse rice in cold water until water runs clear. Soak in water with a pinch of salt for at least 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add drained rice and boil for 6–7 minutes until just al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
  3. Bloom saffron in hot water and set aside.
  4. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a small pan, sauté barberries gently with sugar for 1–2 minutes. Add a splash of saffron water and set aside.
  5. In a clean pot, layer rice with some bloomed saffron and barberries (reserve some for garnish). Optionally add rosewater or turmeric.
  6. Cover pot with a towel-wrapped lid and steam over low heat for 25–30 minutes until fluffy.
  7. Meanwhile, toast pistachios and almonds in a dry skillet or lightly sauté in oil until fragrant.
  8. To serve, gently fluff rice, transfer to a platter, and top with reserved barberries, saffron-infused rice, and toasted nuts.

Notes

  • Soaking rice helps ensure long, fluffy grains when cooked.
  • Use a nonstick or heavy-bottom pot to avoid rice sticking during steaming.
  • Add caramelized onions or raisins for extra flavor complexity.
  • Serve alongside Persian chicken or lamb dishes for a complete meal.
  • Barberries can be found in Middle Eastern or Persian grocery stores.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastyera.com/persian-saffron-rice-with-barberries-pistachios-zereshk-polo/