Baghala Polo with Lamb Shanks – Traditional Iranian Recipe

Baghala Polo with Lamb Shanks – Traditional Iranian Recipe

Baghala Polo with lamb shanks is a flavorful and nourishing dish from the rich and diverse Iranian cuisine, known for its fragrant herbs and slow-cooked meats.

This meal is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional value. Every 300 grams provides approximately 613 calories, 32 grams of protein, 63 grams of carbohydrates, and 25 grams of fat.

Ingredients for Baghala Polo with Lamb Shanks (Serves 4)

Baghala Polo with Lamb Shanks

 

For the rice:

  • 2.5 liters of water

  • 500 grams of basmati rice, soaked for 1.5 hours

  • 225 grams of fresh dill, finely chopped

  • 320 grams of frozen, peeled fava beans

  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

  • 2 tablespoons of melted butter

  • 2 chicken stock cubes, dissolved in 1/4 cup of hot water

For the lamb shank broth:

  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

  • 1 large onion, sliced

  • 1.25 kilograms of lamb shanks (bone-in)

  • 2.5 liters of water

  • Salt to taste

  • A pinch of ground saffron

Preparation Instructions:

  1. Prepare the lamb shanks:
    Heat vegetable oil in a large pot. Add the sliced onion and sauté until softened. Add the lamb shanks and stir until they brown on all sides.

  2. Add water, salt, and saffron to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer gently for about two hours, or until the meat is tender.

  3. Prepare the rice:
    In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add the soaked basmati rice and boil for 5 minutes. Then add the dill and fava beans, stir well, and let the mixture cook for 15 minutes. Drain the mixture in a colander.

  4. In a large pot, pour in the melted butter. Add the drained rice mixture. In a small bowl, mix the vegetable oil with the dissolved chicken stock, then drizzle this over the rice.

  5. Cover the pot tightly with aluminum foil, then place the lid on top. Cook on low heat for 45 minutes to allow the rice to steam and fully absorb the flavors.

  6. Serve:
    Transfer the fluffy, herb-infused rice to serving plates. Top with the tender lamb shanks and serve hot for a comforting and satisfying meal.

This dish is perfect for family gatherings and offers a true taste of Persian hospitality.

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