Shirin Polo

Ingredients

• Water - 4 cups
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Almonds - 1/4 cup, slivered
• Pistachios - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Dried apricots - 1/2 cup, chopped
• Dried cranberries - 1/2 cup
• Sugar - 1/4 cup
• Butter - 4 tablespoons
• Saffron threads - 1/2 teaspoon
• Basmati rice - 2 cups

Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
2. In a small bowl, dissolve the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of hot water.
3. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the soaked and drained rice and sauté for 5 minutes.
4. Add the dissolved saffron, sugar, dried cranberries, dried apricots, pistachios, almonds, and salt to the pot. Mix well.
5. Pour the water into the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Serve hot as a main course or as a side dish.
8. Enjoy your delicious Shirin Polo!