How To Make Loobia Polo (The Perfect Persian Green Bean Rice)

According to SAEDNEWS, Loobia Polo is a cherished Persian dish that offers a beautiful blend of flavors and nostalgia. It's often associated with cozy winter days, filling homes with its delightful aroma. This recipe can cater to everyone, including vegans, vegetarians, and meat lovers. By looking at the recipes of different cultures, there are only a few dishes similar to the complex palate of Loobia Polo. The closest equivalent to this meal is Mexican rice, but the pixie dust of Persian spices takes this dish to another level and makes it one of the most delicious rice dishes all over the world. You can look at the color, feel the texture, and let your mind capture the special moment of smelling the tempting aroma of Loobia Polo and then its taste.

Ingredients

- Rice: 3 cups (soaked for a few hours in warm water with salt)

- Green Beans: 250 grams, cut into desired sizes

- Tomatoes: 2 medium-sized (chopped or ground)

- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons

- Onion: 1 large (sliced or grated)

- Carrots: 1 large (optional)

- Cooking Oil: 2 tablespoons

- Salt: 1 tablespoon

- Pepper: 1 tablespoon

- Turmeric: ½ tablespoon

- Saffron: ½ teaspoon (brewed, optional)

- Cinnamon: ½ teaspoon

- Meat: (Optional) - Use lamb or veal; ground or in meatball form

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat (if using):

- If using meat, decide on sliced or ground. Sauté with chopped onion and spices until browned. Alternatively, you can make meatballs by mixing ground meat with salt, pepper, saffron, and optional chickpea flour. Let rest for 30 minutes, then shape and fry.

2. Sauté Vegetables:

- In a pot, heat oil and sauté the onions until golden. Add the meat (if using), then add the green beans, tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, turmeric, and cinnamon. Mix well and cook for a few minutes.

3. Prepare the Rice:

- Boil soaked rice in salted water for about 5-7 minutes until grains float. Drain and set aside.

4. Layer the Dish:

- In a large pot, layer the bottom with cooked rice, then spoon the meat and vegetable mixture on top. Continue layering until ingredients are used, finishing with rice on the top.

5. Cook the Dish:

- Cover the pot with a lid and cook on high heat for about 5-10 minutes, then lower the heat and allow to simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, ensuring the rice cooks through. If it appears dry, sprinkle with a bit of water.

6. Serve:

- Once cooked, gently fluff the rice and mix. Serve with Shirazi salad, a refreshing combination of chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions dressed with lime juice, salt, pepper, and dried mint.

Tips for Vegan/Vegetarian Variation:

- Simply omit the meat and use vegetables or plant-based protein like tofu or soy meat. Follow the same sautéing instructions with the vegetables.

- Tahdig: For a crispy rice crust, preheat some oil in the pot before layering the rice.

- Enjoy leftovers for breakfast or as a delightful lunch option!

Loobia Polo is a heartwarming dish that seamlessly blends tradition with delicious flavors. Enjoy making this recipe with its comforting aroma filling your kitchen!