Chelo Seebzamini – Iranian Rice With Saffron Potatoes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Description:
Chelo Seebzamini, a traditional Iranian dish, combines the fragrant, buttery goodness of long-grain white rice with the rich, golden flavor of saffron-infused potatoes. This classic dish, often enjoyed in Middle Eastern homes, is an elegant side that pairs wonderfully with stews, grilled meats, or even as a standalone meal. The dish brings together aromatic saffron with earthy potatoes, creating a comforting and flavorful plate.
Recipe Category: Potato
Keywords: Rice, Vegetable, Southwest Asia (Middle East), Asian, <60 mins
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Long-grain white rice | 2 cups |
| Saffron thread | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Warm water | 1 tablespoon |
| Butter | 5 tablespoons |
| Additional butter (for top) | 2 tablespoons |
| Baking potatoes | 2 medium |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Value | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 569.3 kcal |
| Fat | 20.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 53.4 mg |
| Sodium | 150.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 86.3 g |
| Fiber | 2.3 g |
| Sugar | 0.7 g |
| Protein | 8 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Rice:
Begin by placing 6 cups of water in a 3-4 quart casserole dish with a tightly fitting lid. Bring this water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, slowly add the 2 cups of long-grain white rice to the water. Stir the rice a couple of times to ensure it doesn’t stick. Allow the water to continue boiling for about 5 minutes before draining the rice in a sieve. -
Infuse the Saffron:
While the rice is boiling, take the 1/2 teaspoon of saffron thread and crush it lightly with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Dissolve this mixture in 1 tablespoon of warm water, making sure the saffron’s vibrant color and aroma are fully released. -
Melt the Butter:
In a separate small pan, melt 5 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, pour it into the casserole dish containing the saffron mixture. Stir gently to combine the saffron and butter for a fragrant base. -
Prepare the Potatoes:
Peel the 2 medium baking potatoes and slice them into thick rounds. Add the potato slices to the casserole dish, turning them carefully with a spoon to coat them in the saffron butter mixture. Spread the potatoes out flat, ensuring they cover the bottom of the dish evenly. -
Layer the Rice:
Once the potatoes are arranged, begin spooning the drained rice on top. Mound the rice slightly in the center to create a fluffy dome. Dot the top of the rice with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter for extra richness and flavor. -
Cook the Rice and Potatoes:
Cover the casserole tightly with a lid. Begin by cooking it over high heat for the first 5 minutes to ensure the dish is heated through. Then, place a sheet of aluminum foil over the top of the casserole dish to seal it completely. Put the lid back in place and reduce the heat to the lowest possible setting. Let the rice and potatoes steam for about 45 minutes, or until both the rice and potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. -
Serving the Dish:
Once the rice and potatoes are cooked, carefully spoon the rice onto a heated platter. Gently lift the potatoes from the casserole and place them on top of the rice, ensuring that the browned side is facing up for a beautiful presentation. -
Enjoy:
Serve this fragrant Iranian dish as a side to your favorite stews, grilled meats, or as a comforting meal on its own. The saffron’s delicate flavor, combined with the creamy texture of the potatoes, makes Chelo Seebzamini a standout dish that is sure to impress at any gathering.
Tips for Success:
- Saffron Quality: Use high-quality saffron to ensure the most vibrant color and best flavor. Saffron can be expensive, but a little goes a long way in elevating this dish.
- Rice Choice: For the best results, opt for long-grain white rice. It cooks evenly and provides a delicate texture when steamed.
- Cooking Time: The key to perfect Chelo Seebzamini lies in the low and slow steaming process. Don’t rush it – the long steam helps the rice absorb all the wonderful saffron flavor and lets the potatoes soften and develop their golden hue.
Whether you’re seeking to add a Middle Eastern flair to your weeknight dinner or impress your guests with a traditional dish, Chelo Seebzamini is sure to be a hit. With its delicate layers of saffron rice and buttery potatoes, this dish brings both comfort and sophistication to the table. Enjoy it as part of a larger spread or savor it on its own – either way, you’re in for a delicious treat.
