Zereshk Polo

Ingredients

Available from us

Saffron Threads

1 tsp, soaked in 2 tbsp hot water

Buy locally

Basmati Rice

2 cups

Not available in our shop

Chicken Thighs

500g, bone-in

Not available in our shop

Barberries (Zereshk)

½ cup, washed

Not available in our shop

Onion

1 medium, sliced

Not available in our shop

Sugar

1 tsp

Not available in our shop

Salt & Pepper

To taste

Not available in our shop

Butter

2 tbsp

Not available in our shop

Vegetable Oil

2 tbsp

Not available in our shop

Method

Rinse rice and soak for 30 minutes, then cook in salted water until tender, drain and set aside.
Heat oil and sauté onions until golden, then brown chicken thighs on all sides.
In a small pan, melt butter and sauté barberries with sugar very briefly to plump them (do not burn).
Steam the rice with saffron water until fully cooked.
Layer rice on a platter, top with chicken and barberries, garnish with fried onions.
Serve immediately with yogurt or salad on the side.

Additional Tips

Barberries give a tart flavor contrast to the rich chicken and saffron rice. You can substitute cranberries if barberries are unavailable, though flavor will be slightly different. Traditionally served at weddings and special gatherings.