Lentil Rice (Adas Polo)

A community recipe by Raha Lane

Not tested or verified by Nigella.com

Print me

Introduction

This is a delicious and healthy main course.

Ingredients

Serves: 4-6

4 cups basmati rice (rinsed)
2 cups brown lentils (rinsed)
1 pint water
1 cup raisins
1 cup walnuts
1 pinch of salt
1 pinch of pepper
1 pinch of saffron
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large sliced thinly onion

Method

Lentil Rice (Adas Polo) is a community recipe submitted by Raha Lane and has not been tested by Nigella.com so we are not able to answer questions regarding this recipe.

In a large non stick pot on high heat, bring water to boil. Add lentils and cook until lentils are tender, approximately 20-25 minutes.

Add basmati rice and bubble up until rice grains are long, and tender to bite, approximately 4-5 minutes. Drain rice and lentils in a large drainer.

place the empty pot back on medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of oil and transfer the rice and lentil mixture back into the pot using a large serving spoon. Form the rice and lentil mixture into a dome and poke a large hole in the middle with the end of the spoon to allow steam to circulate.

Place the lid on top and simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes. In the meantime, add 2 tablespoons of oil to a non stick skillet on medium heat.

Saute the onion slices until golden and fragrant. Add raisins and walnuts and continue sauteing for 5 minutes. Add salt, pepper, and saffron. Set aside.

Once ready to serve, transfer steamed rice and lentils slowly and gently onto a large flat serving plate. Sprinkle onion, raisin, and walnut mixture on top.

Serve warm with a tossed green salad and a whole roasted chicken or roast beef.

Additional Information

In the bottom of the pot, rice turns into a crispy layer, Persians call "Tah Deeg" which literally means the bottom of the pot. It's so delightful to eat. Serve the Tah Deeg in a separate plate.