Adas Polo, a vibrant and flavorful Iranian dish, is a comforting blend of fluffy basmati rice and hearty red lentils, creating a vegetarian masterpiece. This beloved national treasure transcends a simple side dish; it’s a complete meal, rich in texture and bursting with aromatic spices like turmeric and saffron. The subtle sweetness of the caramelized onions beautifully complements the earthy lentils, resulting in a symphony of taste that will tantalize your taste buds. Imagine tender lentils nestled amongst fragrant rice, each bite offering a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
Beyond its deliciousness, Adas Polo is surprisingly easy to make, requiring readily available ingredients and straightforward techniques. Forget complicated recipes; this version emphasizes simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Persian cuisine? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide to creating your own perfect pot of Adas Polo.
Tools Needed
- 5-liter pot
- strainer
- bowl
- kitchen cloth
- lid
Ingredients
- Green Lentils: 150 grams
- Basmati Rice: 300 grams
- Vegetable Oil
- Salt
- Saffron: a pinch (optional)
- Cucumbers: 3 small
- Tomatoes: 3
- Onion: 1 big
- Lime: 1
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Lentils and Rice
- Wash the lentils two to three times and cook them in enough water for 25 minutes.
- Wash the rice to remove excess starch and soak it for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Fill 2/3 of a 5-liter pot with water, add salt, and bring to a boil (for cooking rice later).
- Once the lentils are cooked (but not overcooked!), add the soaked rice to the boiling water and cook for 4 minutes.




- After 4 minutes of rice cooking, add the cooked lentils with their water to the rice and let it cook and mix for a minute.
- Drain the rice and lentils using a strainer.


Step 2. Cook and Fluff the Rice
- Add vegetable oil to the pot (on high heat), add the drained rice and lentils, cover the pot with a kitchen cloth and lid.
- After 1 minute, reduce heat to medium and let the rice steam for 7 minutes.


Step 3. Create the Rice Dome
- Oil a bowl, add saffron extract, and carefully transfer the cooked rice into the bowl.
- Invert the bowl onto a plate to create a beautiful rice crust.


Step 4. Make the Shirazi Salad
- Dice cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion finely. (Exclude lime for now)
- Squeeze lime juice over the Shirazi salad, add salt, and mix well.


Read more: Lebanese Beef Spinach Stew with Peppered Rice: A Winter Delight
Tips
- Avoid overcooking the lentils to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- The steaming technique creates fluffy, non-sticky rice.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of lentils?
While red lentils are traditional, you can experiment with brown or green lentils, but keep in mind the cooking time might vary. Red lentils cook faster and break down more, creating a creamier texture.
2. What if I don't have saffron?
Saffron adds a beautiful color and aroma, but it's not essential. You can omit it completely, or substitute with a pinch of turmeric for a similar golden hue.
3. How can I make it ahead of time?
Adas Polo is best served fresh, but you can cook the rice and lentils separately ahead of time and reheat them together gently before serving. Avoid reheating for too long to prevent drying out.
With its vibrant colors, comforting flavors, and surprisingly simple preparation, Adas Polo is a dish that will quickly become a family favorite. This vegetarian masterpiece offers a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the fragrant aromas and delightful textures of this authentic Persian culinary gem!