Sabzi Polo (Persian Herb Rice)

Step 1

Rinse Basmati rice at least three times. Set aside.

Step 2

Mix all the chopped herbs in a large bowl and set aside.

Step 3

Fill a large non stick pot with water, place over high heat, cover with a lid and bring water to boil.

Step 4

Once the water is boiling, pour the rinsed rice into the water and cook it for 7-8 minutes until the rice grain is soft on the outside but still firm on the inside.

Step 5

Drain using a colander and mix the herbs with the rice.

Step 6

Place the pot back on medium heat and make sure it's dry. Pour the vegetable oil into the pot and heat it.

Step 7

Once the oil is shimmery, place the lettuce leaves at the bottom of the pot to cover it.

Step 8

5.Scoop the rice and herbs back into the pot. Bring most of the rice to the middle, shaping it into a mound. Using the edge of a spatula, make 5 holes in the surface of the rice to let the steam out.

Step 9

Pour ½ cup of water around the edges. Wrap the lid in a clean towel and put it on the pot. Let the rice steam for 15 minutes, until the steam comes out from the bottom of the pot.

Step 10

Pour 4 tablespoons vegetable oil on the rice, cover, and steam for 20-30 more minutes on low heat.

Step 11

Serve warm with chicken or fish.