Loobia Polow
Experience the rich, comforting flavors of Loobia Polow, a classic Persian rice dish that's sure to impress with its vibrant layers and aromatic spices. This one-pot wonder brings together perfectly steamed basmati rice, tender ground beef or lamb, and fresh green beans, all infused with the warm essence of turmeric, cinnamon, and saffron. The highlight is the golden, crispy tahdig—a delectable potato crust at the base of the pot that adds a satisfying crunch. Loobia Polow is a family favorite, ideal for dinner parties or weeknight meals, and pairs beautifully with fresh herbs or a side of yogurt. Try this irresistible Persian recipe and uncover the magic of its fragrant simplicity!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 3 cups Basmati rice
- 500 grams Ground beef (or lamb)
- 300 grams Green beans, trimmed and chopped
- 1 large Onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 0.5 teaspoons Black pepper
- 4 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 4 cups Water
- 0.5 teaspoons Saffron threads, dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 large Potatoes, sliced for tahdig (optional)
Instructions
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in a bowl of water for 30 minutes, then drain.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden.
Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
Add turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper to the beef. Mix well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
Add tomato paste to the beef mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes to enhance its flavor.
Add the chopped green beans to the skillet and mix. Cook for 5 minutes until the beans soften slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the soaked, drained rice. Boil the rice for 7-8 minutes until it is partially cooked (the grains should still have a bite to them). Drain and set aside.
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. If using potatoes for tahdig, arrange the potato slices on the bottom of the pot to create a crispy base.
Begin layering: Add a thin layer of rice, followed by a layer of the beef and green bean mixture. Repeat until all the rice and mixture are used, ending with a layer of rice on top.
Dissolve saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of hot water and drizzle it over the top layer of rice. Dot the top with butter.
Wrap the lid of the pot in a clean kitchen towel and place it firmly on the pot to trap steam. Cook on medium-high heat for 5-8 minutes, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 40-45 minutes to allow the rice to steam and the flavors to meld.
When ready to serve, gently mix the rice and meat mixture together or serve with the crispy tahdig on the side. Enjoy your fragrant and delicious Loobia Polow!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3065 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 178.6 g | 229% | |
| Saturated Fat | 61.1 g | 306% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 34.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 466 mg | 155% | |
| Sodium | 5344 mg | 232% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 252.8 g | 92% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.9 g | 78% | |
| Total Sugars | 25.3 g | ||
| Protein | 122.6 g | 245% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 436 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 30.3 mg | 168% | |
| Potassium | 4268 mg | 91% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
