ADAS POLOW (PERSIAN RICE AND LENTILS)
It is an Iranian food.
Provided by xxxx
Categories Main Dish Recipes Rice Beans and Rice Recipes
Time 4h35m
Yield 8
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Place the rice in a bowl, and cover with water. Soak the rice for about 3 hours, and drain off the water. Bring the rice, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 4 cups water to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the rice is partially cooked, about 10 minutes. Drain the liquid from the rice, and set the rice aside.
- Bring 2 more cups of water and a pinch of salt to a boil in a saucepan, and stir in the lentils. Bring to a boil, and cook over medium heat until tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat, and fry the onions, stirring frequently, until golden brown, about 20 minutes. Set the onions aside. Dissolve the saffron in 1/3 cup of hot water, and set aside.
- In a large nonstick pot with deep sides, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil until shimmering, and spoon in half the rice to cover the bottom of the pot. Top the rice with the lentils, and cover the lentils with the remaining rice. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and cook until the rice is completely tender and there is a golden brown, crusty layer of rice on the bottom of the pot, about 20 minutes. Pour the saffron water over the rice and lentils, cover, and allow to cook until absorbed, about 10 more minutes.
- To serve, spoon the polow into a serving dish, and peel off and place pieces of the crusty rice layer on top of the polow. Decorate the polow with dates, raisins, and fried onions.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 537.2 calories, Carbohydrate 100.4 g, Fat 7.9 g, Fiber 17.7 g, Protein 17.7 g, SaturatedFat 1.3 g, Sodium 179.6 mg, Sugar 20.5 g
ADAS POLOW
Steps:
- Soak rice in water for 3-4 hours, then cook in salted water for 10-15 minutes using a non-stick pot until it just softens. Drain water and empty the pot. Bring 2-3 cups of water to boil. Wash lentil and add to water with a bit of salt. Cook over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes until tender. Peel and thinly slice onions. Fry in oil until slightly golden. Add ground beef or lamb, salt and black pepper, and fry over medium heat for about 10 minutes. Add one cup of hot water and cook until water has been mostly absorbed. Wash raisins and dates. Pour 1/2 cup of water and some oil in the non-stick pot. Pour in half of the rice. Follow with meat, lentil, raisins, dates and raisins. Then add in remainder of rice. Cook over low heat for about 20 minutes. Dissolve saffron in 1/3 cup of hot water and pour over the rice. Mix well before serving.
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Ingredients
The key ingredients for making Adas Polow are basmati rice, green lentils, onions, cooking oil, salt and pepper. However, many variations of Adas Polow exist, and the recipe can include additional spices, vegetables and proteins.Basmati Rice
Basmati rice is a long-grain rice that is commonly used in Persian cuisine. It has a natural fragrance and flavour that enhances the taste of the dish. Basmati rice is also an excellent source of carbohydrates, fiber, and some essential vitamins and minerals.Green Lentils
Green lentils are a type of lentils that are commonly used in Adas Polow. They have a mild flavour and a slightly nutty taste. Lentils are an excellent source of protein, iron, and fiber. They are also low in fat, making them a healthy and nutritious addition to the dish.Onions
Onions form the base of Adas Polow and are a critical ingredient for creating the dish's signature flavour. They are sauteed until they are caramelised, which adds a sweet and savoury note to the dish.Cooking Oil
Cooking oil is used in Adas Polow to saute the onions and rice. It is best to use a vegetable-based oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or sunflower oil.Salt and Pepper
Salt and pepper are essential seasonings for Adas Polow. They enhance the natural flavours of the dish and add depth and complexity to the taste.Preparation
Cooking Lentils
To make Adas Polow, the first step is to cook the lentils. Rinse the lentils and add them to a pot with enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer the lentils for approximately 20-25 minutes or until they are tender but not mushy.Caramelising Onions
While the lentils are cooking, prepare the onions. Finely chop the onions and add them to a frying pan with cooking oil. Cook the onions on medium heat until they are soft and golden brown, stirring occasionally. This process will take around 15-20 minutes.Cooking Rice
Once the lentils and onions are cooked, it's time to prepare the rice. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Fill a large pot with water and add the rice, salt, and pepper. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook the rice for approximately 8-10 minutes or until it is partially cooked.Layering the Dish
Now it's time to layer the dish. Drain the partially cooked rice and add it to the pot with the caramelised onions. Add the cooked lentils on top of the rice and spread them evenly. Continue layering the rice and lentils until they are all used up.Steaming the Dish
Add a few tablespoons of water to the pot and cover it with a lid. Cook the Adas Polow on low heat for approximately 30-40 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy. The steaming process allows the flavours of the dish to meld together, creating a delicious and well-rounded flavour.Variations
There are many variations of Adas Polow that include additional ingredients and spices. Some popular variations include:Chicken Adas Polow
This variation includes chicken pieces that are sauteed with the onions and added to the layered dish. It is a protein-rich variation that adds depth and complexity to the dish.Pomegranate Adas Polow
This variation includes pomegranate juice and seeds, which add a sweet and tangy flavour to the dish. It is a festive variation that is often served during special occasions and celebrations.Cumin Adas Polow
This variation includes cumin seeds, which add an earthy and smoky flavour to the dish. It is a flavourful variation that is perfect for those who love a bit of spice.Conclusion
Adas Polow is a delicious and satisfying Persian rice dish that is easy to make and can be served as a main course or a side dish. It is a wholesome and nutritious meal that is perfect for any occasion. Adding additional ingredients and spices can elevate the dish to new heights, making it a versatile and exciting meal to make and enjoy.What is Adas Polow?
Adas Polow is a traditional Persian rice dish that features lentils, raisins, and caramelized onions. The dish is both nutritious and flavorful, making it a popular choice for lunches and dinners across the Middle East and beyond. In preparing Adas Polow, there are a few tips and tricks that can help produce a delicious, aromatic, and fluffy dish. Here is a comprehensive guide on valuable tips to keep in mind when making Adas Polow recipes.
Tip 1: Use Long-Grain Rice
The perfect Adas Polow recipe starts with the right ingredients. When making Adas Polow, it is essential to choose long-grain rice, which is fluffier and less sticky than short-grain rice. Long-grain rice also has a distinct aroma that complements the sweet and savory flavors of Adas Polow. Basmati rice, in particular, is an excellent choice for Adas Polow, thanks to its pleasant fragrance and texture.
Tip 2: Soak the Rice and Lentils
Soaking the rice is another critical step in making Adas Polow. Soaking helps to remove excess starch and impurities from the rice, resulting in fluffier and more refined grains. It is advisable to soak the rice for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Soaking the lentils in water for several hours before cooking can also help to reduce cooking time and ensure that they are tender and flavorful.
Tip 3: Brown the Onions
The caramelized onions in Adas Polow add sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish. To achieve perfectly caramelized onions, it is advisable to cook them slowly over low heat until they turn golden brown. This process can take up to 30-45 minutes, but the result is worth it. If you don’t have the time to caramelize onions from scratch, you can use store-bought fried onions, although the flavor may not be as rich and intense.
Tip 4: Use Aromatic Spices and Herbs
The spices and herbs used in Adas Polow are what give the dish its unique flavor and aroma. The most commonly used spices in Adas Polow include cinnamon, cumin, and saffron. Saffron is one of the most expensive spices globally, but it is worth the investment as it adds a luxurious and exotic touch to the dish. Other herbs that are often used in Adas Polow recipes include parsley, coriander, and dill. These herbs add freshness and color to the dish and complement the sweet and savory flavors.
Tip 5: Layer the Ingredients
The final step in making Adas Polow is assembling the dish. Adas Polow is traditionally assembled in layers, with the rice, lentil, and onion mixture piled on top of each other. To ensure that the dish cooks evenly and the flavors meld together, it is important to layer the ingredients properly. Start by placing a layer of rice at the bottom of the pot, followed by a layer of cooked lentils and caramelized onions. Repeat the process until all the ingredients are layered, ending with a layer of rice on top.
Tip 6: Cook Adas Polow on Low Heat
Cooking Adas Polow requires patience and gentle heat. It is essential to cook the dish on low heat, starting with high heat to bring the pot to a boil, then reducing the heat to the lowest setting and letting the rice steam for about 30 minutes. This slow-cooking technique ensures that the rice is cooked through and evenly while allowing the flavors to develop and the aromas to infuse into the dish.
Tip 7: Let Adas Polow Rest
After cooking Adas Polow, it is crucial to let the dish rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors and juices to settle, making the rice fluffier and more aromatic. It also makes it easier to serve and prevents the rice from sticking together. Adas Polow can be served with a side of salad or yogurt and is perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties.
Conclusion
Adas Polow is a delicious and wholesome dish that has been enjoyed for generations in the Middle East and beyond. By following the tips outlined above, you can make a mouthwatering Adas Polow recipe that is full of flavor, aroma, and nutrition. Remember to choose high-quality ingredients, prepare them properly, and cook them slowly and patiently to get the best results. Bon Appetit!