Village Lifestyle Iran: Amazing Cooking & Donkey Riding By A Girl

saffron

🥗Healthier: turmeric

💰Cheaper: yellow food coloring

Turmeric provides color but has a different flavor profile.

barberries

🥗Healthier: dried cranberries

💰Cheaper: raisins

Cranberries add tartness similar to barberries.

chicken

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: canned chickpeas

Tofu offers a plant-based alternative.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Vegetable oil is more economical.

Marinate chicken with saffron, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Sauté chopped onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add marinated chicken and brown on all sides, about 10 minutes.

Stir in turmeric and cinnamon, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Cover and cook for 30-40 minutes until chicken is tender.

Remove chicken and set aside, keeping warm.

In a separate pot, rinse basmati rice under cold water until water runs clear.

Add rice to boiling salted water and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Drain rice and fluff with a fork, then layer in the pot with the chicken and broth.

Add barberries and cover, steaming on low heat for 15 minutes.

Serve chicken over rice, garnished with almonds and pistachios.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: