SAEDNEWS: Lentil rice (Adas Polo) is considered one of the delicious Iranian dishes. In this section, we will explore the key tips for preparing different types of lentil rice and the secrets to making it taste perfect.
Lentil rice, known as Adas Polo, is one of Iran’s delicious and traditional dishes, often prepared as a charitable offering (nazri) during special occasions. To make a flavorful and ceremonial version, there are several key points and tricks you should follow, which are shared below. If you also enjoy this dish, pay attention to these tips to prepare a tasty Adas Polo perfect for lunch, dinner, or even Iftar during Ramadan.
You can make Adas Polo using either ground meat or small meat chunks. To prepare it with meat chunks, first sauté the meat with onions, garlic, and spices in oil until golden and aromatic. Add turmeric and enough water, allowing it to cook thoroughly. Once the meat is tender, pour some brewed saffron over it and let the excess water evaporate. Finally, lightly fry the meat in oil before adding it to the lentil rice.
For Adas Polo with chicken, cook the chicken with onions, a little turmeric, salt, pepper, saffron, and water until fully done. Shred the cooked chicken and sauté it briefly in oil with a bit more saffron to give it a golden color. Layer the cooked rice and lentils in a pot, alternating them with the shredded chicken, and allow it to steam together.
You can also prepare a vegetarian version of Adas Polo. Simply boil the lentils and parboil the rice. Combine them in a pot and steam until fully cooked. To enhance the flavor, you may add soy protein (soya), or simply garnish the dish with saffron, fried onions, and raisins.
Another delicious variation is Adas Polo with small meatballs. Shape the seasoned ground meat into hazelnut-sized balls and fry them in oil until golden brown. Serve the cooked lentil rice topped with the fried meatballs, raisins, and caramelized onions.
You can add barberries (zereshk) to your minced meat mixture for a delightful balance of flavors. Since lentils and meat have a dry, cold nature, raisins or barberries—both warm and tangy—help balance the dish. Some people use both together for a more vibrant flavor and color.
Adding dates to Adas Polo is optional but adds a wonderful sweetness. To prepare it, heat some butter and oil in a pan, then sauté pitted or whole dates until they soften slightly. Serve your lentil rice on a platter and decorate it with the sautéed dates on top.
Choose quality lentils: Select small, evenly colored lentils for the best flavor, as fresh lentils taste superior.
Rice-to-lentil ratio: The usual proportion is about half as much lentil as rice, though you can adjust according to your taste.
The key spices include cinnamon, rose powder, cardamom, coriander powder, cumin, and saffron. Coriander and cumin powders help remove the meaty smell and enhance the aroma. For a spicier version, you can add red chili powder. Finely grated garlic or garlic powder can also be sautéed with onions for a deeper flavor.
When seasoning the minced meat, a small amount of fresh lemon juice can be added to enhance the flavor.
Use enough brewed saffron to give your Adas Polo a rich golden hue and appetizing aroma.
Because it naturally includes raisins, dates, and fried onions, Adas Polo can be beautifully decorated. You can also use sliced almonds and pistachios for an elegant and festive presentation.
