Shalgham Polo (fragrant Carrot Rice)

Shalgham Polo, or Fragrant Carrot Rice, is a traditional dish from Bukharan Jewish Cuisine that is packed with aromatic flavors and wholesome ingredients. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a festive gathering.

Kosher Vegetarian Main Course Bukharan Jewish Bukharan Jewish Rice Carrot Fragrant
Shalgham Polo (fragrant Carrot Rice)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 4 large carrots, grated
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  2. Add the grated carrots to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in the ground cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to toast the spices.
  4. Add the basmati rice to the pot and stir to combine with the carrot mixture.
  5. Pour in 4 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
  6. Fluff the rice with a fork and gently fold in the raisins.
  7. Transfer the fragrant carrot rice to a serving platter and sprinkle with toasted slivered almonds before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
45 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
300 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Protein
5g
Fat
10g

Supplies

Large pot Serving platter

Tools

Cutting board Knife Grater Measuring cups and spoons

Serving suggestions

Shalgham Polo pairs beautifully with a side of yogurt and fresh herbs, such as mint and cilantro.

Tips & tricks

For added richness, you can mix in a tablespoon of butter with the rice before serving.

Cost

$10