Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Iran with our Zereshk Polo, a traditional dish featuring fragrant saffron rice mingled with plump barberries, and tender pieces of succulent chicken. This culinary masterpiece offers a symphony of textures and tastes, with the delicate sweetness of barberries harmonizing perfectly with the savory richness of the chicken. Each forkful is a journey through Iranian culinary heritage, capturing the essence of comfort and luxury in every bite. Whether enjoyed as a hearty family meal or presented as a centerpiece at special gatherings, our Iran Zereshk Polo promises an unforgettable dining experience that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Persia.

Ingredients:

For the Saffron Rice:

  - 2 cups basmati rice

  - 3 cups water

  - 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads

  - 2 tablespoons hot water

  - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter

  - Salt to taste

For the Barberries:

  - 1 cup dried barberries (zereshk)

  - 2 tablespoons sugar

  - 2 tablespoons hot water

  - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter

For the Chicken:

  - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

  - Salt and pepper to taste

  - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter

Instructions:

1- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain.

2- In a small bowl, dissolve the saffron threads in hot water and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.

3- In a large pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add salt and the drained rice. Cook the rice until it's parboiled, about 6-8 minutes. Drain the rice and set aside.

4- In a large non-stick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or butter over medium heat. Add the parboiled rice to the skillet. Drizzle the saffron water over the rice and gently mix until the rice is evenly coated. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the rice to steam and fully cook.

5- While the rice is cooking, prepare the barberries. Rinse the dried barberries under cold water and drain. In a small bowl, mix the barberries with sugar and hot water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes.

6- In a separate skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or butter over medium heat. Add the soaked barberries and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they plump up and become slightly caramelized. Set aside.

7- Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper to taste. In the same skillet used for the barberries, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.

8- To serve, fluff the saffron rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving platter. Top the rice with the caramelized barberries and arrange the sliced chicken on top. Garnish with additional saffron threads if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your Iran Zereshk Polo!

Nutritional Values :

For the Saffron Rice:

2 Cups Basmati Rice

 - Calories: About 360 kcal

 - Fat: 0.6g

 - Carbohydrates: 80g

 - Protein: 8g

benefits:Provides a good source of energy and is low in fat.

3 Cups Water:

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

benefits:Essential for hydration and cooking.

1/4 Teaspoon Saffron Threads:

 - Calories: About 6 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g

benefits:Rich in antioxidants, may improve mood and reduce PMS symptoms.

2 Tablespoons Hot Water (for dissolving saffron):

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

benefits:

For the Barberries:

1 Cup Dried Barberries (Zereshk):

 - Calories: About 150 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 35g

 - Protein: 1g

benefits: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, supports immune health.

2 Tablespoons Sugar:

 - Calories: About 96 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 25g

 - Protein: 0g

benefits:Provides quick energy, enhances flavor.

2 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil or Butter:

 - Calories: About 240 kcal

 - Fat: 28g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

benefits:Provides essential fats for energy and flavor

For the Chicken:

4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs:

 - Calories: About 500 kcal

 - Fat: 20g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 70g

benefits:High in protein, supports muscle growth and repair.

Salt and Pepper, to Taste:

Salt (Per 1 Teaspoon - 6g):

 - Calories: 0

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Sodium: 2,300mg (96% of Daily Value)

Black Pepper (Per 1 Teaspoon - 2.3g):

 - Calories: 5.8

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Carbohydrates: 1.5g

 - Fiber: 0.6g (2% of Daily Value)

 - Sugars: 0g

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Sodium: 0.5mg

 - Potassium: 37.4mg (1% of Daily Value)

 - Iron: 0.2mg (1% of Daily Value)

 - Vitamin C: 0.3mg (0% of Daily Value)

benefits:Enhances flavor, with pepper providing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as cooking methods and specific brands/products used. Additionally, the nutritional values for the saffron and other minor ingredients used for seasoning and garnishing are not included in this breakdown.