xperience the delightful harmony of flavors in Loobia Sabz Polo, a beloved Persian dish that combines tender green beans, savory meat, and fragrant basmati rice. This dish offers a perfect blend of textures and tastes, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed as a comforting family dinner or a special treat for guests, Loobia Sabz Polo brings the authentic essence of Persian cuisine to your table.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
Ingredients
- For the Meat Sauce:
- 500g ground beef or lamb
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- For the Rice:
- 3 cups basmati rice
- 1 teaspoon ground saffron, dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water
- Salt to taste
- 4 tablespoons butter
Method of Preparation
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the ground meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Add the green beans and cook for 5 minutes, until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. Mix well and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
Prepare the Rice:
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rice and cook for 5-7 minutes until the rice is slightly soft. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, layer half of the partially cooked rice. Spoon the meat and green bean mixture over the rice, then cover with the remaining rice.
- Drizzle the saffron water and melted butter over the top of the rice.
- Cover the pot with a lid wrapped in a clean towel and steam the rice on low heat for 30 minutes until fully cooked.
Assemble the Dish:
- Gently fluff the rice mixture with a fork to combine.
- Serve the Loobia Sabz Polo on a large platter, garnishing with additional saffron rice on top if desired.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For a more vibrant color, add a pinch of turmeric to the boiling water when parboiling the rice.
- Ensure the meat sauce is well-seasoned, as it will flavor the entire dish.
- Use fresh, high-quality green beans for the best texture and taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef or lamb?
- A: Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version of the dish.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- A: Absolutely! Replace the meat with a mix of mushrooms or plant-based ground meat alternatives.
Q: What can I serve with Loobia Sabz Polo?
- A: This dish pairs well with a side of yogurt, fresh herbs, and a simple salad.
Savor the delightful blend of textures and flavors in Loobia Sabz Polo, where tender green beans meet fragrant basmati rice and savory meat. This dish, a true gem of Persian cuisine, offers a comforting and satisfying meal that brings warmth and joy to any dining experience. Enjoy the rich culinary heritage of Persia with each bite of this exquisite dish.