Loobia Polo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is rich, hearty, and full of comforting flavors. The combination of seasoned meat, tender green beans, and perfectly cooked rice creates a balanced and satisfying meal. The crispy tahdig adds an irresistible texture, making every bite exciting. It’s a great dish for family meals and special occasions alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Basmati rice
• Ground beef or lamb
• Green beans, trimmed and cut
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato paste
• Olive oil or vegetable oil
• Turmeric
• Cinnamon (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Water

Directions

1. Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear, then soak it for 30 minutes.
2. In a skillet, heat oil and sauté the onion until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.
3. Add the ground meat and cook until browned.
4. Stir in tomato paste, turmeric, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes.
5. Add the green beans and a bit of water, then simmer until the beans are tender and the mixture is well combined.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and parboil the rice for 5–7 minutes, then drain.
7. In the same pot, heat oil and layer some rice at the bottom to form tahdig.
8. Add a layer of the meat and green bean mixture, then more rice. Repeat layers, finishing with rice on top.
9. Cover and cook on low heat for 30–40 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and the tahdig forms.
10. Let rest for a few minutes before serving, then gently mix or serve layered.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 50–60 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Chicken version: Substitute ground meat with diced or shredded chicken.
• Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and add mushrooms or lentils.
• Spiced version: Add cumin or paprika for extra depth.
• Extra crispy tahdig: Use sliced potatoes or flatbread at the bottom.
• Herb addition: Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a covered pan over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep the rice moist.

FAQs

What is Loobia Polo?

It’s a Persian rice dish made with green beans, meat, and spices.

What does tahdig mean?

Tahdig refers to the crispy, golden layer of rice at the bottom of the pot.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans work well in this recipe.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and is great for meal prep.

What type of rice is best?

Basmati rice is preferred for its long grains and aroma.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the meat and add plant-based alternatives.

How do I get crispy tahdig?

Use enough oil and cook on low heat without disturbing the rice.

Can I freeze Loobia Polo?

Yes, it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

What can I serve with it?

It pairs well with yogurt, salad, or pickled vegetables.

Why soak the rice?

Soaking helps the grains cook evenly and stay fluffy.

Conclusion

Loobia Polo is a flavorful and comforting dish that showcases the beauty of Persian cuisine. With its fragrant rice, savory filling, and crispy tahdig, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to customize and rich in flavor, it’s a recipe worth adding to your collection.

Loobia Polo

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Loobia Polo is a traditional Persian rice dish made with green beans, seasoned meat, and fragrant spices layered with fluffy basmati rice. Finished with crispy tahdig, it’s a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Persian
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• Basmati rice
• Ground beef or lamb
• Green beans, trimmed and cut
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato paste
• Olive oil or vegetable oil
• Turmeric
• Cinnamon (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Water

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Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear, then soak it for 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a skillet and sauté the onion until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.
3. Add the ground meat and cook until browned.
4. Stir in tomato paste, turmeric, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper, and cook for a few minutes.
5. Add the green beans and a bit of water, then simmer until tender and well combined.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and parboil the rice for 5–7 minutes, then drain.
7. Heat oil in the pot and add a layer of rice to form tahdig.
8. Layer the meat and green bean mixture with the rice, finishing with rice on top.
9. Cover and cook on low heat for 30–40 minutes until fully cooked and crispy at the bottom.
10. Let rest briefly, then serve layered or gently mixed.

Notes

• Use sliced potatoes or flatbread for a variation of tahdig.
• Frozen green beans can be used if fresh are unavailable.
• Add cumin or paprika for additional depth of flavor.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
• Reheat with a splash of water to keep the rice moist.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 480 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 58 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg