Instant pot Sabzi Pollo – Herbed Persian Rice

I have been longing for all things yellow and saffron. More, yellow… To me it is the color of spring. My longings inspired this lovely fragrant Persian herb rice called Sabzi Pollo or Sabzi Pollow. A fragrant rice dotted with loads of herbs and streaked with bits of golden saffron. I will confess, that the butter does not hurt, it is what keeps Persian rice extra separate. It also makes the rice dishes taste extra special. This is a classic recipe for the Persian New Year, Navroz. And because I am a little crazy, I have also perfected this recipe using brown rice.

My Sabzi Pollo Story

I need extra special today, particularly to help brace for a week ahead. A week, where I can see the beginnings of a cold.  Sabzi in the Persian kitchen refers to an assortment of herbs.  Polow or Pollo, is another word for pilaf. I always have a bunch of herbs towards the end of the week, or the beginning of the week depending on your perspective.

This rice dish is of course just the perfect way to use it up. I make this with a combination of dried and fresh herbs and also throw in some kale or spinach for a powerful nutritional boost.

How this dish fits into the seasonal philosophy

Here at Spice Chronicles, we are firm believers of living with the seasons. I also believe the seasons beckon us to savor and enjoy their offering.  Getting this bi-color effect for the rice was surprisingly easy using the electric pressure cooker. I add the saffron strands on one side of the rice. This keeps the color a little contained. I love to finish with a little lime or lemon juice.

And when you mix you get the streaks. Of course, this can be done to fluffy perfection on the stove top.

Down to the herbs, I used a combination of fresh and dried. Dried fenugreek, dried parsley, and fresh mint, cilantro and dill. I am sure you can modify to your pantry and taste. You will get a fragrant and easy rice dish no matter what.  I want to be grateful for the lovely weather that we have been experiencing.

 

Love the fact that I have some time to enjoy the longer days. I am actually mentoring a high school student over the next few weeks and am thrilled with how rewarding it has been already.  By the way, just in case you are interested, you can get a pre-mixed package of dried herbs on Amazon.

Here is to a beautiful week ahead. Wishing you smiles, sunshine and loads of fragrant golden rice.

Another rice dish brimming with fresh herbs includes my chickpea biryani and a great Persian recipe on this blog features this lovely eggplant dish.

If you like this recipe and want more ideas, do join my Indian Instant Pot Facebook group. Of course Instant Indian is ready for order, joining its siblings The Bengali Five Spice Chronicles and Spices and Seasons.