Rice is the staple of the Iranian diet. Below is a recipe for a popular variation on classic Persian rice. This dish will add color and excitement to an ordinary meal.

Red rice can be made several different ways it can be combined with beans, meat, or it can be enjoyed plain. Persians love to top this dish with a healthy dollop of plain yogurt.

Serves 5-6 people

Prep Time: 40 Minutes

Cook Time: 40 Minutes

Ingredients:

1 Small Onion

3 Cloves of Garlic

5-6 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil

Pinch of Finely Ground Pepper

1/2 Teaspoon of Salt (Change to Taste)

2 Pinches of Turmeric

5-6 Cups of Water

5 Cups of Rice (Preferably Basmati Rice)

2 Cups Tomato Sauce

Instructions:

1. Wash the rice to remove any dirt or residue

2. Finely chop the whole onion

3. Pour 5-6 spoons of oil into a large saucepan and let it heat over a high flame

4. Add the onion to the oil

5. Add One Pinch Pepper

6. Add 1/2 Teaspoon Salt

7. Add 2 Pinches of Turmeric

8. Add 2 small cans of Tomato sauce.

9. Add 5 to 6 cups of water and bring it all to boil

10. Pour 5 cups of washed rice into the pot

11. Lower the flame immediately, and stir

12. Every couple of minutes, stir the rice to keep it from sticking

13. Keep the top on between stirs and let the rice cook for 20 minutes

14. You’ll know the rice is done when all the liquid has boiled away

15. Serves 5-6 people.

• You may notice a nearly burnt sticky part on the bottom of the rice. Don’t worry! This is the best part. Just scoop this crust on top of your dish and enjoy!