Adas Polo (عدس پلو)
Azizon.net, Inspired by Persian Life
Introduction
Adas Polo (عدس پلو), meaning Persian Lentil Rice, is one of Iran’s oldest and most nourishing rice dishes. Combining fluffy basmati rice with tender lentils, sweet raisins, caramelized onions, fragrant saffron, and warming Persian spices, this beloved recipe perfectly represents the balance of flavours that defines Persian cuisine.
Across Iran, Adas Polo is enjoyed throughout the year, especially during family gatherings, Ramadan, and cooler seasons when hearty comfort food is most appreciated. Some households prepare it as a vegetarian meal, while others top it with saffron chicken, seasoned minced beef, or slow-cooked lamb. Every family has its own treasured variation passed down through generations.
Simple to prepare yet rich in flavour and tradition, Adas Polo is a beautiful example of how Persian cooking transforms everyday ingredients into an elegant and memorable meal.
Recipe Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Persian Name | عدس پلو |
| English Name | Persian Lentil Rice |
| Category | Rice Dish |
| Cuisine | Persian / Iranian |
| Difficulty | ⭐⭐ Easy |
| Preparation Time | 20 Minutes |
| Cooking Time | 50 Minutes |
| Total Time | 1 Hour 10 Minutes |
| Servings | 4–6 |
| Best Served | Lunch or Dinner |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Authentic Persian family recipe
✔ Naturally rich in plant protein
✔ Perfect balance of sweet and savoury flavours
✔ Budget-friendly ingredients
✔ Excellent for meal preparation
✔ Freezer friendly
✔ Beautiful centrepiece for family meals
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Metric | Imperial | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basmati Rice | 500 g | 2½ cups | Soaked for 1 hour |
| Brown or Green Lentils | 250 g | 1¼ cups | Rinsed |
| Large Onion | 2 | 2 | Thinly sliced |
| Raisins | 100 g | ¾ cup | Golden raisins preferred |
| Dates (Optional) | 8–10 | 8–10 | Pitted |
| Butter | 30 g | 2 tbsp | Optional but recommended |
| Vegetable Oil | 60 ml | ¼ cup | |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 tsp | 1 tsp | |
| Turmeric | 1 tsp | 1 tsp | |
| Ground Cumin | ½ tsp | ½ tsp | Optional |
| Persian Saffron | Pinch | Pinch | Bloomed in hot water |
| Salt | To taste | To taste | |
| Black Pepper | To taste | To taste |
Optional Toppings
- Saffron Chicken
- Seasoned Minced Beef
- Slow-cooked Lamb
- Fried Onions
- Pistachio Slivers
- Almond Flakes
- Barberries
Ingredient Spotlight
Basmati Rice
The heart of every Persian rice dish. Proper soaking and parboiling ensure the grains remain long, fluffy, and separate after steaming.
Lentils
Lentils provide protein, fibre, and a satisfying texture. Brown or green lentils are ideal because they stay firm during cooking.
Persian Saffron
Known as the world’s finest saffron, Iranian saffron gives Adas Polo its luxurious aroma, delicate floral notes, and beautiful golden colour.
Raisins & Dates
Sweet dried fruits are commonly paired with savoury dishes in Persian cuisine, creating a distinctive balance that is both elegant and comforting.
Equipment
- Large cooking pot
- Medium saucepan
- Frying pan
- Rice strainer
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
- Kitchen towel (Damkesh)
Preparation Checklist
Before you begin:
✔ Wash the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear.
✔ Soak rice in salted water for one hour.
✔ Rinse the lentils.
✔ Slice the onions.
✔ Bloom saffron in hot water.
✔ Prepare raisins and dates.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1 — Cook the Lentils
Place the lentils in a saucepan, cover with water, and simmer for about 20–25 minutes until tender but still holding their shape. Drain and set aside.
Step 2 — Parboil the Rice
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the soaked basmati rice and cook for 6–8 minutes until the grains are slightly soft on the outside while remaining firm in the centre. Drain immediately.
Step 3 — Prepare the Onion Mixture
Heat the vegetable oil over medium heat and slowly fry the sliced onions until deep golden brown and caramelized.
Add turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, and cumin, stirring until fragrant.
Fold in the raisins and dates and cook gently for another two to three minutes.
Step 4 — Assemble the Rice
Lightly oil a heavy-bottomed pot.
(Optional: arrange sliced potatoes or flatbread on the base to create a crispy Tahdig.)
Layer the rice and lentils alternately, finishing with a layer of rice.
Pour the saffron water over the top and dot with butter.
Step 5 — Steam
Wrap the lid with a clean kitchen towel to absorb condensation.
Cover tightly and steam over low heat for approximately 35–40 minutes.
The rice should become beautifully fluffy while forming a crisp golden Tahdig.
Step 6 — Serve
Carefully fluff the rice with a fork.
Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with:
- Caramelized onions
- Raisins
- Dates
- Pistachios
- Almond slivers
- Optional saffron chicken or minced beef
Serve immediately.
Cooking Timeline
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| Ingredient Preparation | 20 min |
| Cook Lentils | 25 min |
| Boil Rice | 8 min |
| Prepare Onion Mixture | 20 min |
| Steam Rice | 40 min |
Total Time: Approximately 70 minutes
Azizom Cooking Tips
🌿 Always use aged basmati rice for the fluffiest texture.
🌿 Do not overcook the lentils—they should remain intact.
🌿 Steam the rice slowly over low heat for the best results.
🌿 Bloom saffron in hot (not boiling) water to preserve its delicate aroma.
🌿 Allow the rice to rest for five minutes before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Overcooking the lentils until mushy.
❌ Skipping the rice soaking stage.
❌ Frying raisins for too long.
❌ Using too much water while steaming.
❌ Stirring the rice aggressively after cooking.
Recipe Variations
Traditional Adas Polo
Rice, lentils, raisins, dates, saffron.
Adas Polo with Chicken
Served alongside saffron-marinated chicken.
Adas Polo with Minced Beef
One of the most popular family versions.
Vegetarian Adas Polo
Prepared without meat while maintaining authentic Persian flavours.
What to Serve with Adas Polo
Traditional accompaniments include:
- Mast-o-Khiar
- Shirazi Salad
- Sabzi Khordan
- Torshi Liteh
- Persian Pickles
- Doogh
- Fresh herbs
Storage & Reheating
| Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
Reheat gently by steaming or microwaving with a splash of water to restore moisture.
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 82 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fibre | 10 g |
| Sodium | 360 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Adas Polo in advance?
Yes. It stores well and often tastes even better the next day.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze in airtight containers for up to three months.
Which lentils work best?
Brown or green lentils are recommended because they keep their shape.
Is Adas Polo vegetarian?
The base recipe is vegetarian. Simply omit any meat toppings.
Can I use jasmine rice?
Authentic Adas Polo is made with long-grain basmati rice for the best texture and aroma.
Persian Food Culture
Adas Polo has been part of Persian home cooking for centuries. It reflects the traditional Iranian appreciation for balancing earthy lentils, fragrant rice, aromatic saffron, and naturally sweet dried fruits in a single dish. During Ramadan, it is especially valued for its wholesome ingredients and satisfying nourishment after a day of fasting. Across different regions of Iran, families personalize the recipe with saffron chicken, lamb, or minced beef, while the vegetarian version remains equally cherished. Its simplicity, nutritional value, and comforting flavour have made Adas Polo a timeless favourite that continues to bring families together around the table.
Related Recipes on Azizom.net
- Ghormeh Sabzi (قورمه سبزی)
- Loobia Polo (لوبیا پلو)
- Baghali Polo (باقالی پلو)
- Tahchin (ته چین)
- Zereshk Polo ba Morgh (زرشک پلو با مرغ)
About Azizom.net
Azizom.net – The Taste of Iran
At Azizom.net, we celebrate the richness of Persian food, culture, history, travel, and everyday life. Our mission is to preserve authentic Iranian recipes while making them accessible to home cooks around the world. Every recipe is carefully researched and written to honour traditional Persian cooking techniques and the stories behind them.
Recipe Disclaimer
This recipe is provided for educational and informational purposes. Cooking times, ingredients, and nutritional values may vary depending on the products and equipment used. Always adjust seasoning to your taste and ensure food is cooked safely before serving.
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