Indulge your senses in the rich tapestry of Iranian cuisine with Shirin Polow, a delectable rice dish renowned for its sweet and savory blend of flavors. This aromatic delicacy combines the subtle fragrance of saffron with the natural sweetness of nuts and the citrusy zest of orange, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate with every bite. Shirin Polow represents a harmonious fusion of tradition and sophistication, reflecting Iran's culinary heritage with its intricate preparation and exquisite presentation. Whether enjoyed as a standalone treat or paired with succulent meat dishes, Shirin Polow invites you on a culinary journey to savor the essence of Persian gastronomy.

Ingredients:

  - 2 cups basmati rice

  - 4 cups water

  - 1/4 cup vegetable oil

  - 1/2 cup slivered almonds

  - 1/2 cup slivered pistachios

  - 1/2 cup slivered walnuts

  - 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins

  - 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  - 1/4 teaspoon ground saffron threads (dissolved in 2 tablespoons of hot water)

  - Zest of 1 orange

  - Salt to taste

Instructions:

1- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes.

2- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the boiling water. Cook the rice until it's partially cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the rice.

3- While the rice is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds, pistachios, walnuts, and dried cranberries or raisins to the skillet. Sauté the nuts and fruits until they are lightly toasted and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside.

4- Once the rice is partially cooked, drain it using a fine-mesh sieve or colander.

5- In the same pot used for cooking the rice, layer half of the drained rice back into the pot. Sprinkle half of the sugar, half of the saffron water, half of the orange zest, and half of the nut and fruit mixture over the rice.

6- Layer the remaining rice on top, followed by the remaining sugar, saffron water, orange zest, and nut and fruit mixture.

7- Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and place it over low heat. Allow the rice to steam for about 30-40 minutes, or until it's fully cooked and fluffy.

8- Once the rice is cooked, gently fluff it with a fork to mix in the nuts, fruits, and spices.

9- Serve the Shirin Polow hot as a side dish or with your favorite Iranian main course.

Enjoy your delicious Iranian Shirin Polow!

Nutritional Values :

2 Cups Basmati Rice:

 - Calories:About 680 kcal

 - Fat: 0.5g

 - Carbohydrates: 148g

 - Protein: 12g 

Benefits: Provides essential energy through carbohydrates and is easier to digest compared to other rice varieties.

4 Cups Water:

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Essential for cooking the rice and hydrating the body.

1/4 Cup Vegetable Oil:

 - Calories: About 480 kcal

 - Fat: 56g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Adds healthy fats and enhances flavor. Vegetable oil is versatile and neutral.

1/2 Cup Slivered Almonds (about 60g):

 - Calories: About 350 kcal

 - Fat: 30g

 - Carbohydrates: 12g

 - Protein: 12g 

Benefits: Provides healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals. Rich in antioxidants.

1/2 Cup Slivered Pistachios (about 60g):

 - Calories: About 300 kcal

 - Fat: 25g

 - Carbohydrates: 14g

 - Protein: 10g 

Benefits: Adds healthy fats and protein. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

1/2 Cup Slivered Walnuts (about 60g):

 - Calories: About 400 kcal

 - Fat: 39g

 - Carbohydrates: 8g

 - Protein: 9g 

Benefits: Provides healthy fats, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. Contains antioxidants.

1/2 Cup Dried Cranberries or Raisins (about 60g):

 - Calories: About 250 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 65g

 - Protein: 1g 

Benefits: Adds natural sweetness and dietary fiber. Provides vitamins and minerals.

1/2 Cup Granulated Sugar:

 - Calories: About 400 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 100g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Adds sweetness. Use sparingly to avoid excess sugar intake.

1/4 Teaspoon Ground Saffron Threads (dissolved in 2 tablespoons of hot water):

 - Calories: About 6 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Adds a unique flavor and color. Saffron has antioxidant properties and can help improve mood and digestion.

Zest of 1 Orange:

 - Calories: About 12 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 3g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Adds fresh citrus flavor and provides vitamin C.

Salt to Taste:

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand, cooking methods, and specific ingredients used. Additionally, the nutritional values for the saffron threads and orange zest are negligible as they are used in very small amounts.