Crispy Persian Rice (Tahdig) with Spiced Golden Chickpeas
Crispy Persian Rice (Tahdig) with Spiced Golden Chickpeas is a vibrant dish that combines the delightful crunch of golden rice with the savory goodness of seasoned chickpeas. This recipe highlights the rich flavors of turmeric and paprika, offering a satisfying vegetarian meal perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. With simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, you can easily create a visually appealing and nutritious dish that will impress everyone at the table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Persian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 (16-ounce) can chickpeas, drained
- 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2–4 cloves garlic, sliced
- 2 shallots, sliced
- Fresh mint or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Boil in salted water for 6–8 minutes until al dente, then drain.
- Mix 1.5 cups cooked rice with yogurt in a bowl.
- In a skillet, melt butter and oil over medium heat. Spread yogurt-coated rice evenly and pile remaining rice in the center, creating holes to promote steam.
- Cook until golden brown on edges (about 30–35 minutes total).
- In another skillet, sauté chickpeas with garlic, shallots, turmeric, paprika, and red pepper flakes until crisp.
- Serve tahdig topped with spiced chickpeas and garnish with fresh herbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg