Easy & Flavorful Persian food Rice Recipe – Sabzi Polo: A Beginner’s Guide

Here’s Why You’ll Love This Persian Herb Rice Recipe

Craving a taste of exotic flavors without spending hours in the kitchen? You’re in the right place! This Persian Herb Rice recipe, also known as Sabzi Polo, is your ticket to a simple yet incredibly delicious culinary adventure. Imagine fragrant basmati rice infused with a medley of fresh herbs, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is designed with beginners in mind. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring your Persian Herb Rice turns out perfect every time. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this effortlessly elegant dish. Let’s get cooking!

Ready to discover how easy and delightful Persian cooking can be? Keep reading, and let’s bring this vibrant dish to life together!

Printable Recipe Card: Your Easy Persian Food Recipe Guide!

Easy & Flavorful Persian Herb Rice (Sabzi Polo)

This Persian Herb Rice recipe, also known as Sabzi Polo, is a simple yet incredibly delicious culinary adventure. Fragrant basmati rice infused with fresh herbs, perfect for beginners and busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine middle eastern, persian

Servings 4 people

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Fine-mesh sieve For rinsing rice
• 1 Medium pot with lid Tight-fitting lid
• 1 Sharp Knife For chopping herbs
• 1 Cutting Board For chopping herbs
• 1 Fork For fluffing rice

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups Basmati rice rinsed
• 1 cup Fresh parsley packed, finely chopped
• 1 cup Fresh cilantro packed, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup Fresh dill packed, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup Fresh chives or green onion finely chopped
• 1/4 cup Vegetable oil plus 2 tablespoons for serving
• 4 cups Water cold
• 1 teaspoon Salt or to taste

Instructions

 

• Place the basmati rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. Set aside to drain.
• Wash and thoroughly dry fresh herbs. Finely chop parsley, cilantro, dill, and chives or green onion.
• In a medium pot, heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped herbs and sauté for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
• Add rinsed rice to the pot with herbs. Stir to combine. Pour in 4 cups of water and add salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
• Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 20 minutes undisturbed.
• Turn off heat, let sit covered for 10 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork.
• Transfer to serving dish. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons vegetable oil if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Variations: Add cooked protein (chicken, shrimp, fish, chickpeas, lentils). For Tahdig, add oil and potato slices/lettuce leaves at the bottom before cooking. Stir in toasted nuts after fluffing. Add red pepper flakes or green chili for spice.

Keyword beginner persian recipe, easy rice recipe, persian food recipe, persian herb rice, sabzi polo

Let’s Gather Our Ingredients for This Persian Herb Rice

Full Ingredient List

• 2 cups Basmati rice, rinsed
• 1 cup packed fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 cup packed fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup packed fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh chives or green onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil, plus 2 tablespoons for serving
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Smart Ingredient Swaps and Easy Substitutions

• No fresh chives/green onion? No problem! You can easily skip the chives or green onion if you don’t have them on hand. The recipe will still be delicious with the other herbs. For a slight oniony flavor, consider adding a pinch of onion powder to the rice while it cooks.
• Dried herbs to the rescue! While fresh herbs are ideal for their vibrant flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use about 1/3 cup of dried parsley, cilantro, and dill combined. Just remember that dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor, so use less and adjust to taste. Add them to the rice during the cooking process.
• Rice alternatives: While basmati rice gives the most authentic texture and flavor, you can use other long-grain rice varieties if needed. Just be aware that cooking times and water ratios might need slight adjustments depending on the type of rice you use. Brown rice can also be used for a healthier twist, but it will require longer cooking time and more water.

Budget-Friendly Tips and Finding Ingredients

• Seasonal herbs are your friend: Herbs are often cheaper when they are in season. Check your local farmers’ markets for better deals and consider growing your own herbs at home – even a small pot on a windowsill can provide fresh herbs regularly!
• Buy herbs in bulk (and store them right!): If you use herbs often, buying them in larger bunches can be more cost-effective. To keep fresh herbs longer, trim the stems, place them in a glass of water like flowers, and loosely cover with a plastic bag in the refrigerator.
• Embrace frozen herbs: Frozen herbs are a budget-friendly and convenient option, especially for parsley and cilantro. They are often cheaper than fresh and can be stored for a long time. Add them directly to the pot—no thawing needed!
• Rice smarts: Basmati rice is aromatic and wonderful, but it can be pricier. If you’re on a tight budget, look for sales on basmati rice or consider using regular long-grain rice, which is more affordable and still works well in this recipe.

Time to Cook! Your Step-by-Step Guide for Persian Herb Rice

1. Rinse the rice like a pro: Place the basmati rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial for removing excess starch, which prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Think of it as giving your rice a spa treatment before its big debut! Set aside to drain.
   
   Tip: Rinsing is key to fluffy rice! Don’t skip this step for the best texture.
2. Herb prep – chop, chop, chop! While the rice is draining, wash and thoroughly dry your fresh herbs. Finely chop the parsley, cilantro, dill, and chives or green onion. The finer the chop, the more evenly the herb flavor will distribute throughout the rice.
   
   Technique Tip: To easily chop herbs, gather them into a tight bunch and use a sharp knife to slice thinly across the bunch, then chop finely.
3. Sauté the herbs for flavor depth: In a medium-sized pot with a tight-fitting lid, heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped herbs and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and slightly softened. This step releases their aromatic oils and deepens their flavor, which will beautifully infuse the rice.
   
   Flavor Boost: Sautéing herbs is a game-changer! It’s like waking up the flavors and making them sing.
4. Combine rice, herbs, and water: Add the rinsed and drained rice to the pot with the sautéed herbs. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly mixed with the herbs. Pour in 4 cups of water and add salt. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.
   
   Safety First: Be careful when adding water to a hot pot – it might splatter a bit!
5. Simmer to perfection: Once boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pot tightly with the lid, and let it simmer undisturbed for 20 minutes. It’s crucial not to lift the lid during this time, as the steam is what cooks the rice perfectly.
   
   Patience is a Virtue: Resist the urge to peek! Let the steam work its magic.
6. Rest and fluff – the final touch: After 20 minutes, turn off the heat and let the pot sit, still covered, for another 10 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to fully absorb any remaining moisture and become perfectly fluffy. After resting, gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and release any trapped steam.
   
   Fluffing Secret: Fluffing is like giving your rice a little massage – it makes it light and airy!
7. Serve with love: Transfer your fragrant Persian Herb Rice to a serving dish. Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil for extra shine and flavor, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful flavors of Persia right in your kitchen!
   
   Serving Suggestion: A drizzle of oil adds a lovely sheen and richness.

Variations to Spice Things Up!

• Add some protein: Make it a complete meal by adding chicken, shrimp, or fish to the rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking. For a vegetarian protein boost, stir in some chickpeas or lentils.
• Tahdig magic: Crave that crispy rice crust at the bottom of the pot, known as Tahdig? Before adding water, spread a thin layer of oil at the bottom of the pot. You can even place a few potato slices or lettuce leaves at the bottom for an extra crispy and flavorful Tahdig.
• Nutty delight: For added texture and flavor, stir in some toasted slivered almonds or pistachios after fluffing the rice.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped green chili to the herbs while sautéing.

Our Best Tips & Tricks for a Perfect Persian Herb Rice

• Don’t overcook – watch the water: The key to perfect rice is getting the water ratio and cooking time just right. If you find that the water is absorbed before the rice is fully cooked, add a tablespoon or two of boiling water and continue to simmer. Conversely, if there’s still water left after the cooking time, cook uncovered over low heat until the excess water evaporates.
• Fluff it right: When fluffing the rice, use a fork and be gentle to avoid mashing the grains. Fluff from the bottom up to ensure all parts of the rice are evenly light and airy.
• Herb balance is key: Feel free to adjust the herb ratios to your liking. If you prefer a stronger dill flavor, add a bit more. Love cilantro? Go ahead and increase it! The beauty of cooking is making it your own.
• Quality rice matters: Using good quality basmati rice makes a noticeable difference in the final dish. Look for aged basmati rice for the best aroma and texture.
• Taste and adjust seasoning: Before covering the pot to simmer, taste the water. It should be slightly salty. Adjust the salt as needed to ensure your rice is perfectly seasoned.

What to Serve with Your Delicious Persian Herb Rice: Perfect Pairings

Persian Herb Rice is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to create a complete and delightful meal:

• Grilled wonders: Grilled chicken, fish, or lamb kebabs are classic pairings. The smoky flavors of the grill complement the fresh herbs in the rice beautifully.
• Stew sensations: Serve alongside Persian stews like Ghormeh Sabzi (herb stew) or Khoresh Bademjan (eggplant stew) for a truly authentic Persian feast. The rice soaks up the flavorful stew sauces perfectly.
• Yogurt coolness: A dollop of plain yogurt or Persian cucumber yogurt (Mast-o Khiar) provides a refreshing contrast to the herbed rice.
• Salad refresh: A simple Shirazi salad (cucumber, tomato, and onion salad) adds a crisp and fresh element to the meal.
• Vegetable sides: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes are excellent vegetarian accompaniments.

How to Store and Reheat Your Delicious Persian Herb Rice

Lucky you if there are leftovers! Persian Herb Rice stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying the next day.

• Storing: Allow the rice to cool completely before storing it. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Properly stored, it will last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Reheating on the stovetop: For best results, reheat the rice on the stovetop. Add a tablespoon or two of water to the pot for every cup of rice to prevent it from drying out. Cover and heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method helps retain the rice’s texture and moisture.
• Microwave reheating: For a quick reheat, microwave the rice in a microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon of water per cup of rice, cover loosely, and microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as it can dry out the rice.

Your Persian Food Recipe FAQ: Simple Answers for Confident Cooking

• Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
  

  Yes, you can, but fresh herbs provide a much brighter and more vibrant flavor. If using dried herbs, use about 1/3 cup total of dried parsley, cilantro, and dill. Add them to the pot when you add the water, allowing them to rehydrate and infuse flavor as the rice cooks.

  
  
• Can I make Persian Herb Rice ahead of time?
  

  Absolutely! You can make Persian Herb Rice up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat as directed. In fact, some people find that the flavors meld even better the next day!

  
  
• How do I prevent the rice from becoming sticky?
  

  Rinsing the rice thoroughly before cooking is crucial for removing excess starch, which is the main culprit for sticky rice. Also, avoid stirring the rice too much while it’s cooking, as this can also release starch and make it sticky. Follow the water ratio and cooking times closely for best results.

  
  
• What if I don’t have all the fresh herbs listed?
  

  Don’t worry! The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. If you’re missing one herb, like dill or chives, you can still make delicious herb rice with just parsley and cilantro. You can also adjust the ratios based on your preference or what you have available. Even using just two of the listed herbs will give you a flavorful dish.

  
  
• Is this recipe vegetarian and vegan?
  

  Yes, this Persian Herb Rice recipe is naturally vegetarian and vegan, making it a great option for various dietary needs. Ensure you use vegetable oil to keep it vegan-friendly. It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish on its own or as a side!

  
  

Time to Savor Your Delicious Persian Herb Rice and Share the Joy

Congratulations, you’ve just created a fragrant and flavorful Persian Herb Rice! This simple yet elegant dish is a testament to how easy and rewarding cooking can be. We hope you enjoy every bite of your homemade Sabzi Polo and feel proud of your culinary creation. Now it’s time to share the joy!

Loved this recipe? Give it a star rating below! Don’t forget to snap a picture of your beautiful Persian Herb Rice and share it with our friendly community on social media! Tag us on Instagram and Pinterest. We can’t wait to see your creations and cheer you on in your cooking journey. Happy cooking!