Cooking Special Chicken, local Ash with Pickled "Haft Bijar" in Iranian Village Style

saffron

🥗Healthier: turmeric

💰Cheaper: cumin

Turmeric offers a similar color and earthy flavor at a lower cost.

Haft Bijar pickles

🥗Healthier: mixed vegetable pickles

💰Cheaper: store-bought pickles

Mixed vegetable pickles provide a similar tangy flavor.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is more affordable and has a neutral flavor.

almonds

🥗Healthier: walnuts

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds are less expensive and provide a crunchy texture.

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

Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add chicken pieces and brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.

Sprinkle saffron, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt over the chicken.

Pour in lemon juice and enough water to cover the chicken.

Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 30-40 minutes until chicken is tender.

Remove the lid and let the sauce reduce for 10 minutes if too watery.

Prepare rice according to package instructions.

Serve chicken over rice, garnished with Haft Bijar pickles, fresh herbs, and pomegranate seeds.

Top with sliced almonds before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens