Persian Herb & Lentil Rice (Sabzi Polo with a Twist)

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A fresh, herb-loaded rice dish with a crispy golden crust and protein-rich lentils—perfect for spring!

A Springtime Favorite with a Persian Twist

You know that feeling when spring finally decides to show up, and suddenly everything feels fresh and full of life? That’s exactly what this dish tastes like. Sabzi Polo is a Persian classic, traditionally served during Nowruz (Persian New Year) to celebrate new beginnings, and honestly, it’s just the kind of meal that makes you feel good inside and out.

Now, I love a good herby rice dish, but I also need something a little heartier to keep me full. That’s why I gave this a Southern Soil Sunshine spin by adding lentils for extra protein and keeping that irresistible crispy rice crust (tahdig). It’s fluffy, fragrant, and packed with fresh spring herbs, making it the perfect side—or even a main dish if you top it with crispy chickpeas or a dollop of garlicky yogurt sauce.

Trust me, once you taste that golden crust at the bottom of the pot, you’ll understand why people fight over the tahdig. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Packed with fresh spring herbs for a bright, aromatic flavor
✅ Crispy tahdig layer adds a satisfying crunch
✅ Protein-rich lentils make it a hearty yet light meal
✅ Naturally gluten-free and easy to make vegan

Quick Reference

🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes
⏳ Cook Time: 45 minutes
🍽 Servings: 4-6
🥗 Dietary Info: Vegetarian (vegan option available), gluten-free

🌿 Key Ingredients at a Glance:

• Basmati rice
• Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, cilantro, chives)
• Brown or green lentils
• Garlic & onion
• Ground turmeric & saffron
• Ghee (or olive oil for vegan option)

Ingredients

For the Rice & Lentils:

• 1 ½ cups basmati rice, rinsed
• ½ cup brown or green lentils
• 4 cups water
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Herb Mix:

• ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• ½ cup fresh dill, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh chives, finely chopped

For the Flavor & Tahdig (Golden Crust):

• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon saffron threads, bloomed in 2 tbsp warm water
• 3 tablespoons ghee or olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste

📝 Optional: Add crispy roasted chickpeas or a side of yogurt-tahini sauce for extra protein!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Lentils

1. Rinse the lentils and add them to a small pot with 2 cups of water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until just tender but not mushy.
3. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Rice

1. Rinse basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil, add salt and the rice, and parboil for 5-6 minutes (it should still have a bite).
3. Drain and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics & Layer the Rice

1. In a large nonstick or cast-iron pot, heat 2 tbsp of ghee (or olive oil) over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until golden (about 5 minutes), then stir in garlic and turmeric for another minute.
3. Remove from heat and mix in the drained lentils.

4. Build the Sabzi Polo Layers

1. Spread the onion-lentil mixture evenly at the bottom of the pot.
2. Layer half the rice on top, then sprinkle half the fresh herbs.
3. Add the remaining rice, followed by the rest of the herbs.
4. Drizzle bloomed saffron water over the top.

5. Create the Golden Tahdig (Crispy Crust!)

1. Using the back of a spoon, poke a few holes in the rice to allow steam to escape.
2. Drizzle remaining 1 tbsp of ghee or olive oil over the top.
3. Cover with a kitchen towel and place a lid on the pot.
4. Cook over medium-low heat for 35-40 minutes until a golden crust forms at the bottom.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

🍋 Serve with a side of yogurt-tahini sauce for creaminess.
🥒 Add a cucumber and radish salad for extra crunch.
🌶 Garnish with crispy shallots or sumac for a tangy kick.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in a pan over low heat to crisp up the tahdig again.

Final Thoughts

This Persian-inspired Sabzi Polo with a Lentil Twist is the perfect way to welcome spring. The fresh herbs, golden crust, and fluffy basmati rice make it a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. If you try this, let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram @SouthernSoilSunshine! 🌿💛