Pelow Shirin Festive Persian Rice Dish

Transform your table into a Persian feast with Pelow Shirin, a vibrant, festive rice dish that balances sweet and savory flavors in every bite. This traditional recipe features fluffy Basmati rice infused with fragrant saffron and rose water, layered with candied orange peel, slivered almonds, pistachios, and tart barberries (or golden raisins as a substitute). The saffron-sugar syrup and delicate spices lend a luxurious aroma and golden hue, while the slow steaming process ensures every grain is perfectly tender. Perfect as an eye-catching centerpiece for celebrations or special occasions, Pelow Shirin is a showstopper that will captivate both the eyes and the taste buds. Serve it as a side dish or pair it with grilled meats for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups Basmati rice
• 6 cups Water
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 3 tablespoons Butter
• 1 cup Sugar
• 0.25 teaspoon Saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons Hot water
• 0.25 cup Candied orange peel
• 0.25 cup Slivered almonds
• 0.25 cup Pistachios, chopped
• 0.25 cup Dried barberries (or golden raisins as a substitute)
• 2 tablespoons Rose water
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil

Directions

Step 1

Wash the Basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in a bowl of water for at least 30 minutes, then drain.

Step 2

In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water with 1 teaspoon of salt to a rolling boil. Add the drained rice and cook for 6–7 minutes, until the rice is partially cooked (still firm in the center). Drain the rice and set aside.

Step 3

Dissolve the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of hot water and set aside to steep.

Step 4

In a medium-sized pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over low heat. Gently sauté the candied orange peel, slivered almonds, pistachios, and dried barberries for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 5

In a small saucepan, dissolve 1 cup of sugar in 1/3 cup of water over medium heat. Once dissolved, add the rose water and saffron liquid, stirring to combine. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. Remove from heat.

Step 6

In a large nonstick pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Layer half of the partially cooked rice in the pot. Sprinkle half of the sautéed fruit and nut mixture over the rice, followed by half of the saffron and sugar syrup. Repeat with the remaining rice, fruits, nuts, and syrup, creating layers.

Step 7

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke 4–5 holes into the rice to allow steam to escape during cooking.

Step 8

Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle over the top of the rice. Cover the lid of the pot with a clean kitchen towel, then place the lid tightly over the pot to trap steam.

Step 9

Reduce the heat to low and cook for 30–35 minutes, allowing the rice to steam and absorb the saffron syrup.

Step 10

After cooking time is complete, gently fluff the rice with a fork to combine the layers. Serve hot as a festive centerpiece, garnished with additional pistachios or rose petals, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2345.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2555.3

Total Fat 98.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 26.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 17.9g
Cholesterol 98.7mg	0%
Sodium 2638.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 398.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.7g	0%
Total Sugars 270.8g
Protein 31.6g	0%

Vitamin D 6.7IU	0%
Calcium 293.2mg	0%
Iron 9.6mg	0%
Potassium 1087.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 33.9%

Protein: 4.9%

Carbs: 61.2%