Sabzi Polo Ba Mahi, a delightful Persian dish, is celebrated especially during Nowruz, the Persian New Year. This dish pairs fragrant herbed rice (Sabzi Polo) with perfectly cooked fish (Mahi), creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
It’s a culinary symbol of the Nowruz festival and one of the best foods in Iran, representing rebirth and renewal. This dish is not just about tantalizing your taste buds; it’s about experiencing a piece of Persian culture and tradition.
Contents
Ingredients:
- White fish (like seabass or cod), filleted – 4 pieces
- Basmati rice – 2 cups
- Fresh dill, finely chopped – 1 cup
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped – 1 cup
- Fresh cilantro, finely chopped – 1 cup
- Garlic cloves, minced – 2
- Saffron, dissolved in hot water – 1 teaspoon
- Lemon, sliced – 1
- Turmeric powder – 1 teaspoon
- All-purpose flour – for dusting fish
- Vegetable oil – for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Rice
Rinse and soak the rice in salted water. Boil water in a large pot, add the drained rice, and cook until it’s al dente. Drain the rice and mix with the chopped herbs.
Prepare the Fish
Season the fish fillets with salt, pepper, turmeric, and garlic. Lightly dust them with flour.
Fry the Fish
Heat oil in a pan. Fry the fish until golden and crispy, then set aside on paper towels.
Layer the Dish
In a pot, layer the herbed rice and saffron water, creating a fluffy, fragrant bed of rice.
Assemble and Serve
Place the cooked fish on top of the rice. Garnish with lemon slices. Serve hot, enjoying the blend of aromatic herbs and the succulent fish.
Tips:
Rice Preparation
For the perfect texture, don’t overcook the rice; it should be fluffy and separate.
Fish Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality fish for the best flavor.
Saffron: Use authentic saffron for the distinct aroma and color it imparts.
Cultural Insight
Sabzi Polo Ba Mahi is more than a dish; it’s a celebration of Persian New Year. It reflects the joy, freshness, and prosperity associated with Nowruz.
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