Zereshk Polo (Barberry Rice) Bites

Ingredients

• 1 cup Basmati Rice
• 0.5 cup Barberries (zereshk)
• 0.5 teaspoon Saffron Threads
• 1 tablespoon Sugar
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1.5 cups Water
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt

Instructions

1. 1Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2Rinse the barberries and soak them in warm water for 15 minutes to soften. Drain well.
3. 3Grind the saffron threads with a pinch of sugar. Dissolve the saffron mixture in 2 tablespoons of hot water.
4. 4In a pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the drained barberries and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they plump up. Stir in the sugar and saffron water. Cook for another minute until the sugar dissolves.
5. 5Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot with the barberry mixture. Add 1.5 cups of water and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the water is absorbed.
6. 6Fluff the rice with a fork. Serve small portions as bite-sized snacks.

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