How to Make Reshteh Polo

with Saffron Chicken

Reshteh Polo is a traditional and flavorful dish that has been a staple in many households for generations. The combination of premium local rice with toasted noodles gives this dish a unique and delightful taste, making it an excellent choice for those who love classic flavors. Beyond its incredible taste, Reshteh Polo is filled with nostalgia, bringing back memories of family gatherings, Nowruz celebrations, and even the excitement of Chaharshanbe Suri.

Reshteh Polo: A Beloved Nowruz Dish

One interesting thing about Reshteh Polo is that many families consider it the perfect dish to welcome the new year, even though others prefer Sabzi Polo with fish for their Nowruz feast. There’s an old belief that eating Reshteh Polo on New Year’s Eve brings good fortune, helping everything fall into place, almost like weaving the threads of fate together! Whether it’s for Nowruz or any other time of the year, this dish remains a beloved and popular choice.

Ingredients for Reshteh Polo with Saffron Chicken

How to Make Reshteh Polo with Saffron Chicken

Preparing the Chicken

Thinly slice the onion and sauté it in a little oil until golden. Add the chicken pieces and season with turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Sauté until the chicken is lightly browned.

Pour in the brewed saffron and fresh lemon juice, allowing the flavors to absorb. Add enough water to cover the chicken, then let it simmer on low heat until tender and fully cooked.

Cooking the Reshteh Polo

Rinse and soak the rice for a few hours before cooking. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add some salt. Add the rice and let it cook until it’s halfway done. Then, stir in the Reshteh and let it cook for another minute or two.

Drain the rice and noodles. In the same pot, melt some butter or heat oil, and if you’d like, add sliced potatoes or flatbread for a crispy tahdig. Layer the rice and noodles in the pot, pouring brewed saffron over the top for extra aroma and color.

Cover the pot and let the rice steam on low heat for 30 to 40 minutes. Once ready, serve your fragrant Reshteh Polo with saffron chicken and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Reshteh Polo can be prepared in different ways. Whether paired with saffron chicken -either shredded or in whole pieces- or with ground beef or meatballs, it’s always delicious. Here are some great sides to enhance the dish:

• Fried dates or raisins
• Chopped walnuts
• Pickles or yogurt
• Shirazi salad or fresh herbs

Final Thoughts

Traditional dishes like Reshteh Polo aren’t just about taste; they’re part of our heritage and culture. Cooking and preserving these recipes connect us to our past and help keep valuable traditions alive for future generations. So if you haven’t tried Reshteh Polo with saffron chicken yet, now’s the perfect time to make it and experience its unforgettable flavors!