Baghali Polo

Baghali Polo, a delicate yet aromatic rice dish layered with tender fava beans and fragrant dill, is a simple but elegant side that complements any meal. It’s a staple in Persian households, often paired with stews or enjoyed on its own.

Baghali Polo
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Baghali Polo

Recipe by Park Slope Cooks

Ingredients

  • 14 oz frozen fava beans, thawed and drained

  • 1 x bunch dill, finely chopped

  • 4 cups basmati long grain rice

  • 6 tbsp salt

Directions

  • Do ahead – soak the rice for an hour with salt in a bowl with room temperature water. Drain.
  • Fill an 8-quart pot with water (¾ of the way filled) to a boil and add the 6 Tbsp of salt.
  • Add the rice and cook for 7 mins.
  • Drain the rice.
  • Put the pot back on the stove top, add cooking oil, and bring to medium heat.
  • Build layers of rice and fava beans in the pot. Start by pouring roughly a third of the rice back in the pot. Each layer of rice should be topped with chopped dill and some fava beans. Aim for 3 layers.
  • Cover the lid with a towel or paper towels, folding the end ups over the lid so they don’t catch fire. Let the rice pot cook on medium-high heat for 10 mins.
  • Lower the heat to low and let cook for another 30 mins.
  • Once done, fluff the rice and mix gently. Serve on a platter.