How to Make Simple Raisin Rice Without Meat!

Keshmesh Polo is a wonderfully tasty and satisfying dish. Thanks to the combination of meat and raisins, it doesn’t require a side dish and can be served on its own. While Keshmesh Polo is cooked throughout Iran, each region has its own unique method of preparation. It is especially famous as a traditional dish from Ardabil, Tabriz, and Mazandaran. It can be made with ground meat, meatballs, or shredded chicken. In this recipe, Keshmesh Polo is prepared with ground meat. The natural sweetness of raisins creates an incredible flavor contrast when paired with savory ingredients.

How to Make Simple Keshmesh Polo Without Meat

1. First, clean the rice and rinse it several times until the water is clear. Add about 1 teaspoon of salt to 2 cups of rice and soak for 2 hours to improve cooking.

2. Grind saffron with a little sugar and add a piece of ice to bring out a vibrant color.

3. Peel and finely dice the onion, then sauté it in a pan with a little oil and turmeric until golden and light. Fried onions can also be used.

4. Peel and grate the carrot (fine or coarse), then sauté it with a little saffron and onion until soft.

5. Add the cleaned and washed raisins and sugar to the mixture, stir until the raisins plump and the ingredients are well combined. Remove from heat. Your filling is ready.

Cooking the Rice
Place the rice on the stove, bring it to a boil, and skim off any foam. Once the rice softens, drain it. Prepare the bottom of the pot with your preferred tahdig (crispy rice layer) and add a layer of rice, followed by the filling mixture, a pinch of cinnamon and cumin, then the remaining rice. Steam the dish for 25 minutes. Finish with a little butter on top and serve. Enjoy!

Key Tips for Making Simple Keshmesh Polo Without Meat or Chicken

• You can prepare plain white rice and add the filling on top at the end.

• Use rice spices for extra flavor.

• Adjust the amount of raisins to your taste.