How to cook the perfect rice

Rice, as any Iranian chef worth their tahdig will attest, is sacred. It forms the backbone of cuisines across the Middle East and perfecting rice is a rite of passage. Unlike in Britain, where rice comes in a superabundance of soggy forms, dry, or steamed, long grain rice is the Iranian choix du jour every day, and rightfully so.

With a little TLC, and extra time spent beside the stove, rice has the power to heighten a whole dish.

After 27 years of life, rice-cooking is an art form I have yet to completely master. But the process of learning to perfect steamed white rice and what we call tahdig — the crispy carby layer at the bottom of the pan—has become a surprisingly meaningful way for me to reconnect with my father’s culture.

As the half-Iranian daughter of a first generation migrant, it’s become something I can share with my British friends while simultaneously feeling closer to family abroad. Now, I’m going to share my culinary secrets with you. Because frankly, there’s only one way to cook the perfect rice—and you’re probably doing it wrong. 

Disclaimer: this way of cooking rice is a lengthy process, but it can be shortened for the lazy cook. More extravagant versions can be made by adding barberries to serve with chicken, or dry dill and broad beans to serve with fish.

Most important though, is the crunchy layer at the bottom of the pan. By adding oil, the rice at the bottom transforms into a golden crisp. Tasting a little like popcorn, you can add bread, potato—or even pasta!—to create your own unique twist.

Here’s how to make it like my maman bazorg…

TIP: If you would like to add barberries (for Zereshk Polo), heat them in a pan with 2 tablespoons of butter, 1 tablespoon of sugar and a pinch of salt. Then stir them through the pot when the rice is ready, before serving.

If you need the ingredients for you next planned recipe or just want to stock up on your groceries. Then why not order from Morrisons on Amazon and get them delivered straight to your door. Orders are hand-picked from local stores by dedicated Morrisons staff and delivered to customers by Amazon Flex Delivery Partners.

Read more: Chicken parma recipe

Read more: Lemon cake recipe

*This post contains affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site at no additional cost to you.