SAEDNEWS: Adas Polo, a beloved Iranian rice dish, combines lentils, meat, raisins, dates, and saffron for a nutritious and flavorful meal. Rich in protein and iron, it’s easy to prepare, versatile for both festive and everyday occasions, and a delicious glimpse into Iran’s culinary heritage.
According to Saed News’ Cooking Section, Adas Polo is one of Iran’s most delicious and popular rice dishes, a staple on weekly Iranian tables. Its versatility allows it to transform from a festive, elaborate dish to a simple, everyday meal, making it equally loved across all social tables.
This dish is easy to prepare and, thanks to its combination of lentils and meat, it is high in protein and iron, making it extremely nourishing. For this reason, it is a popular choice for charitable meals during religious ceremonies. If you enjoy a blend of sweet, sour, and mild flavors, Adas Polo can become your favorite dish. The combination of sweet raisins and dates, sour barberries, and the mild taste of lentils and rice creates a delightful harmony of flavors. For those who prefer simpler tastes, any of these ingredients can be omitted without losing the essence of this beloved dish.
Rice – 3 cups
Lentils – 1.5 cups
Ground meat – 300 g
Finely diced fried onions – 5 tablespoons
Raisins – 1 cup
Pitted dates – 200 g
Cinnamon – 2 tablespoons
Salt, turmeric, black pepper, and garlic powder – as needed
Oil and dissolved saffron – as needed
A few hours before cooking, wash and soak the rice and lentils separately.
Cook the lentils gently until tender, but do not remove the skins.
Mix half of the fried onions with the ground meat over heat, stirring until the meat changes color. Add one cup of water and simmer for 30 minutes.
Add spices, cinnamon, and saffron to the meat mixture, then set aside.
Cook and drain the rice, then mix it with the cooked lentils (drained) and transfer to a suitable pot to steam.
Sauté the remaining fried onions with the washed and drained raisins until the raisins swell and shine.
Remove the pits and skins from the dates, cutting each into two pieces.
After the rice has steamed, transfer Adas Polo to a serving dish and garnish with the meat mixture, saffron rice, raisins, and dates. For extra flair, add sautéed barberries, fried onions, or slivered almonds and pistachios.
Adas Polo offers a tasty and wholesome journey into Iran’s culinary heritage, combining nourishing ingredients with vibrant flavors. It is a perfect example of how traditional Iranian dishes blend nutrition, culture, and celebration into one unforgettable experience.
