It took a few years for me to find out what Zereshk even is. At first I thought they were currants, but eventually discovered they are actually barberries. Zereshk Polo is Persian rice with barberries on top. It’s buttery, sweet, tart and delicious - one of my favorite dishes. You can also add saffron to the rice, which is very nice aesthetically but doesn’t add much to the flavor for me, so I didn’t bother this time.

This Sadaf brand is the zereshk I have been able to find at the store. I found it at India Market. You can also find it on Amazon, but it’s overpriced. I keep these in the freezer. The berries are kind of dehydrated, so you soak them before using.

Zereshk Polo

1 1/2 tbsp butter
1/2 cup frozen barberries, soaked for 15 minutes, rinsed thoroughly, and drained
1 1/2 tbsp granulated sugar
2 servings of Persian Rice

Heat a small frying pan on medium. Melt the butter. Add the barberries and sugar. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sugar is dissolved. Spoon the zereshk over the top of two plates of Persian rice and serve.

Serves two. Can easily be multiplied as needed.

Ingredients

Instructions