Discover the authentic taste of Bagilla Polo, a classic Persian dish featuring fragrant rice cooked with fresh dill and tender fava beans. Perfectly paired with lamb or chicken, this flavorful recipe brings a touch of Persian cuisine to your table. Learn how to make this delicious and aromatic dish with our easy-to-follow recipe!

Ingredients:

- 2 cups basmati rice

- 1 cup fava beans (fresh or frozen, peeled)

- 1 cup fresh dill, finely chopped

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- Salt to taste

- Black pepper to taste

- 4 cups water

- 1 lemon (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Rice:

 - Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes.

 - In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt.

 - Add the soaked rice to the boiling water. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the rice is partially cooked (still slightly firm). Drain the rice and set aside.

Cook the Fava Beans:

 - If using fresh fava beans, blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath. Peel the beans and set them aside. If using frozen fava beans, thaw and peel them.

 - In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and golden brown.

 - Add the fava beans to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combine Ingredients:

 - Stir in the chopped dill, turmeric, cumin seeds, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

 - Gently fold the partially cooked rice into the skillet with the dill and fava bean mixture. Mix carefully to combine without breaking the rice grains.

Steam the Rice:

 - In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the rice mixture to the pot and spread it out evenly.

 - Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low. Steam the rice for 25-30 minutes, or until fully cooked and fluffy.

Serve:

 - Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.

Serve the Bagilla Polo hot, alongside lamb or chicken for a traditional Persian meal.

 - Enjoy your delicious Bagilla Polo!

Nutritional Values

Basmati Rice:

 - Calories: 190

 - Carbohydrates: 41g

 - Protein: 4g

 - Fat: 0.3g

 - Fiber: 0.6g

Benefits:

 - Provides a source of energy through complex carbohydrates.

 - Low in fat and cholesterol.

 - Gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Fava Beans:

 - Calories: 187

 - Carbohydrates: 33g

 - Protein: 13g

 - Fat: 0.7g

 - Fiber: 9g

Benefits:

 - Rich in protein and fiber, aiding in digestion and supporting muscle health.

 - Contains iron and folate, essential for blood health and reducing fatigue.

 - Provides antioxidants and vitamins like B1 and B2, which support energy production and metabolic functions.

Fresh Dill:

 - Calories: 4

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0.4g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Fiber: 0.5g

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress.

 - Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune function, skin health, and bone health.

 - Has digestive benefits and may help alleviate symptoms of bloating and gas.

Onion:

 - Calories: 44

 - Carbohydrates: 10g

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

 - Provides antioxidants like quercetin, which may reduce inflammation and support heart health.

 - Rich in vitamins C and B6, supporting immune function and energy metabolism.

 - Contains prebiotics that aid in gut health.

Olive Oil:

 - Calories: 119

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 14g

 - Fiber: 0g

Benefits:

 - High in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

 - Contains antioxidants like vitamin E, which protect cells from damage.

 - Has anti-inflammatory properties that may support overall wellness.

Turmeric:

 - Calories: 9

 - Carbohydrates: 1.6g

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0.2g

 - Fiber: 0.8g

Benefits:

 - Contains curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

 - May support joint health and alleviate symptoms of arthritis.

 - Could help improve brain function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Cumin Seeds:

 - Calories: 8

 - Carbohydrates: 0.9g

 - Protein: 0.4g

 - Fat: 0.4g

 - Fiber: 0.2g

Benefits:

 - Rich in iron, which is crucial for blood health and oxygen transport.

 - Contains antioxidants that may help improve digestion and support immune function.

 - Has antimicrobial properties that could benefit gut health.

Lemon (Optional):

 - Calories: 17

 - Carbohydrates: 5g

 - Protein: 0.6g

 - Fat: 0.2g

 - Fiber: 1.6g

Benefits:

 - High in vitamin C, supporting immune health and skin integrity.

 - Contains antioxidants that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress.

 - Aids in digestion and may enhance the absorption of other nutrients.

These ingredients not only contribute to the flavor and texture of Bagilla Polo but also offer various health benefits, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.