Sour Cherry Rice🍒 | My Favorite Summer Dish | Authentic Iranian Dish

sour cherries

🥗Healthier: fresh cherries

💰Cheaper: canned cherries

Fresh cherries may be less tart and more accessible.

saffron

🥗Healthier: turmeric

💰Cheaper: yellow food coloring

Turmeric provides color but alters flavor.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier and adds flavor.

chicken

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: chickpeas

Tofu is a plant-based protein option.

Rinse basmati rice under cold water until water runs clear.

Soak rice in water for at least 30 minutes.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Sauté chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.

Stir in sour cherries, sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom; cook for 5 minutes.

Add soaked rice to the pot and mix gently.

Pour in enough water to cover the rice by an inch; season with salt.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.

Cook for 30-40 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed.

In a small pan, melt butter and stir in saffron until dissolved.

Drizzle saffron butter over the rice before serving.

Garnish with walnuts and rose water before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: