Growing up in a Persian household, the aroma of fragrant Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) would always fill the air on special occasions. It’s a dish that brings back such warm memories for me – the sizzle of the shrimp, the vibrant colors of the herbs, and the comforting flavors that transport me right back to my grandmother’s kitchen. To this day, it’s a recipe I turn to again and again, and I’m excited to share it with you.
Table of Contents
Why This Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo)
What makes this Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) recipe truly special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The shrimp are seared to perfection, lending a delightful sweetness, while the aromatic herbs – parsley, dill, and cilantro – add a fresh, vibrant note. The basmati rice is cooked to fluffy, tender perfection, soaking up all the wonderful seasonings. And the touch of turmeric and cinnamon? Pure magic, creating a dish that’s both comforting and utterly craveable.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The shrimp are the star of the show, providing that delicious seafood flavor and tender bite.
- 2 cups basmati rice: Basmati is the traditional rice used in this dish, with its long, slender grains and light, fluffy texture.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: The onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the rice.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must-have, infusing the dish with its unmistakable aroma and flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: These vibrant herbs lend their unique flavors and colors, creating a truly stunning final dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: The oil is used to sauté the shrimp and onions, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: These warm spices add depth and complexity to the rice.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground saffron (optional): The saffron is a luxurious touch, providing a subtle, earthy flavor and beautiful golden hue.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season the dish and bring out all the flavors.
- Lemon wedges for serving: The bright acidity of the lemon is the perfect accompaniment to the rich, herby Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo).
Step-by-Step Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) Instructions
Preparing Your Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo)
Preparing this Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) recipe is a breeze, with a total time of just 35 minutes. You’ll need a large skillet or wok, a medium saucepan, and a few basic kitchen tools. Let’s get started!
1- Rinse the basmati rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear, then let it soak in fresh water for 30 minutes. This helps ensure perfectly fluffy, separate grains.
2- In the skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until translucent and fragrant.
3- Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
4- Now, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Transfer the shrimp to a plate.
5- In the same skillet, add the drained basmati rice, turmeric, cinnamon, and saffron (if using). Stir to coat the rice in the spices and toast for 2-3 minutes.
6- Fluff the rice with a fork, then serve the Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) hot, garnished with the chopped parsley, dill, and cilantro. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Pro Tips for Success
- Soak the rice for at least 30 minutes before cooking to achieve the perfect fluffy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the shrimp – work in batches if needed to ensure even searing.
- Adjust the spices to your taste preference – you can increase or decrease the turmeric, cinnamon, and saffron to suit your palate.
- Serve the Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Serving and Storing Your Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo)
Perfect Pairings for Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo)
This Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) recipe serves 4 people, making it a wonderful dish to enjoy as a main course or share as part of a larger Persian-inspired spread. I love serving it with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad, perhaps drizzled with a tangy yogurt dressing. A glass of iced black tea or a crisp white wine also pairs beautifully.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) is best enjoyed fresh, but you can certainly make it ahead of time. The cooked rice and shrimp can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the rice in a skillet with a splash of water, then toss in the cooked shrimp until heated through.
For longer-term storage, you can freeze the cooked Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo)
Creative Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) Variations
- Swap in different types of seafood, such as salmon or cod, for a delicious twist.
- Add sliced mushrooms or diced bell peppers for extra color and texture.
- Use a mix of fresh and dried herbs for a more intense flavor profile.
- Sprinkle toasted slivered almonds or crispy fried onions on top for crunch.
Making Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) Diet-Friendly
To make this Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) recipe gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of the regular soy sauce.
For a low-carb version, you can replace the basmati rice with riced cauliflower. Just be sure to sauté the cauliflower rice with the herbs and spices before adding the shrimp.
Vegans and vegetarians can enjoy this dish by omitting the shrimp and using tofu or chickpeas instead. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work great in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely before peeling, deveining, and cooking.
Q: How long does it take to prepare and cook this Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) recipe?
A: The total time for this recipe is 35 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I make Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the rice and shrimp components separately and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the rice and shrimp together.
Q: How much does this Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) recipe serve?
A: This recipe serves 4 people as a main course.
Q: What if I don’t have all the fresh herbs on hand?
A: You can use a combination of fresh and dried herbs if needed. Just adjust the quantities to taste.
Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo)
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) is a quick and flavorful Persian-inspired dish that combines tender shrimp, fragrant herbs, and fluffy rice for a mouthwatering meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups basmati rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground saffron (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp, turmeric, cinnamon, and saffron (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are partially cooked.
5. Stir in the drained rice, parsley, dill, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the shrimp are fully cooked.
7. Serve the Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) warm, with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
For a deeper flavor, toast the rice in the skillet for 2-3 minutes before adding the liquid. You can also substitute other herbs, such as basil or mint, based on your preferences.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Beef, Fish & Seafood Mains
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Persian
Conclusion
Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo) is a truly special dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. The balance of flavors, the vibrant colors, and the satisfying textures make it an absolute delight. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try – I know you and your loved ones will be just as smitten with it as I am. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your photos on social media using #MeygooPoloRecipe. Enjoy!
