Lubia Polo Recipe from Tehran

Lubia Polo, a beloved pillar of Persian cuisine, marries aromatic basmati rice with tender ground meat, green beans, and an intoxicating blend of spices. This delectable dish, steeped in layers of flavors and textures, is a testament to Iran’s rich culinary legacy. Journey with us today through our Lubia Polo recipe, an exciting exploration into Persian cooking that will tantalize your tastebuds.

Ingredients: Gathering the Essence of Lubia Polo

• 1.5 lbs (700 g) ground beef or lamb
• 2 cups Basmati rice
• 2 cups green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Saffron strands, steeped in 2 tablespoons hot water (optional)

Cooking Instructions: Crafting the Perfect Lubia Polo

1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in salted water for at least an hour, then drain.
2. Cook the Meat: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the ground meat, garlic, turmeric, black pepper, and half a teaspoon of salt. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon.
3. Add the Beans and Tomato Sauce: Once the meat is browned, add the green beans, tomato sauce, and cinnamon. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the beans are tender.
4. Cook the Rice: While the meat and beans are simmering, cook the rice in a large pot of boiling salted water until it is just tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain the rice and rinse it under cold water.
5. Combine and Cook: In the pot, heat a tablespoon of oil and butter. If using saffron, add half of it to the oil. Layer half of the rice in the pot, followed by the meat and bean mixture, and then the rest of the rice. Drizzle with the remaining saffron water. Cover and cook over low heat for about 30 minutes, until the rice is tender and fully cooked.

Lubia Polo: A Tapestry of Persian Gastronomy

Lubia Polo, translating to “green bean rice,” is a cherished part of family meals and festive gatherings in Iran, known for its delightful harmony of flavors and the comfort it brings to the dining table.

Serving Instructions: Savoring the Lubia Polo

• Presentation: Lubia Polo is traditionally presented directly in the pot it was cooked in, allowing for the preservation of the tantalizing aromas.
• Garnish: Sprinkle the dish with a pinch of ground cinnamon or a few strands of saffron for added allure.
• Serve: Distribute generous servings of Lubia Polo onto each plate, ensuring to scoop from the bottom to include the deliciously crispy rice layer known as Tahdig.
• Enjoy: Let your senses revel in the delightful complexity of Lubia Polo, a true Persian culinary gem.

We hope this Lubia Polo recipe brings warmth and joy to your dining table. Enjoy the process of creating this beautiful dish and share the splendid flavors of Persian cuisine with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

Dive Deeper into Our Rich Recipe Collection

At Living in Tehran, we’re proud to offer an expansive range of authentic recipes that showcase the diverse, sophisticated, and incredibly flavorful world of Iranian cuisine. From traditional classics like Lubia Polo and Dolmeh to modern takes on regional delights, our recipe collection is crafted with love and respect for Iran’s culinary heritage. Every dish tells a story, one filled with aromatic spices, vibrant ingredients, and the passion of Persian cooks. We invite you to embark on this exciting gastronomic journey with us, to discover, learn, and most importantly, savor the incredible delights of Iranian cuisine right from the comfort of your own kitchen. Happy cooking, and Nush-e Jan!