Gheimeh Polo (Persian Split Pea Rice) - Cooking with Yousef

lamb

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: beef

Chicken reduces fat content while still providing protein.

yellow split peas

🥗Healthier: green lentils

💰Cheaper: chickpeas

Green lentils are nutritious and more affordable.

saffron

🥗Healthier: turmeric

💰Cheaper: paprika

Turmeric adds color and flavor at a lower cost.

basmati rice

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: long-grain rice

Quinoa is nutritious while long-grain rice is budget-friendly.

Heat cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Sauté chopped onion until translucent.

Add ground beef and brown on all sides.

Stir in tomato paste, turmeric, black pepper, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon; cook briefly.

Add split peas and enough water to cover the mixture; bring to a boil.

Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until meat is tender.

In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add rice; cook until partially tender.

Drain rice and layer it over the meat mixture in the pot.

Add dry lime and liquid saffron; cover and steam on low heat.

Serve Gheimeh Polo topped with optional rose water.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: