Adas Polo (Persian Lentil Rice with Dates)

A nutrient-dense Persian classic combining green lentils and basmati rice to deliver high fiber and plant-based protein without added sugars.

Ingredients

Calories next to each ingredient are for that ingredient across the whole recipe (4 servings), not per serving.

• 1 cup (180 g) basmati rice · 648 kcal in the whole recipe
• 1 cup (160 g) dry green lentils · 563 kcal in the whole recipe
• 1.5 medium (180 g) yellow onion, thinly sliced · 72 kcal in the whole recipe
• 1.5 tbsp (18 g) olive oil · 159 kcal in the whole recipe
• 7 (60 g) dates, pitted and chopped · 166 kcal in the whole recipe
• 2 tbsp (25 g) raisins · 75 kcal in the whole recipe
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp bloomed saffron liquid
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Method

1. Boil the green lentils in water for about 15 minutes until tender yet firm, then drain.

   

2. Rinse the basmati rice, soak in salted water for 20 minutes, then parboil in boiling water for 6 minutes and drain.

   

3. Sauté thinly sliced onions in olive oil over low heat for 12 minutes until soft and caramelized.

   

4. Add pitted chopped dates, raisins, ground cinnamon, saffron, salt, and pepper to the onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes.

   

5. Layer the parboiled basmati rice, cooked lentils, and date mixture in a non-stick pot, cover tightly, and steam on low heat for 25 minutes.

   

A Besly kitchen recipe — portions, macros and step photos by Besly.