Persian Herb Rice
Sabzi Polo is a fragrant and vibrant Persian herb rice dish, where fluffy basmati rice is steamed with a generous blend of finely chopped fresh herbs, most commonly dill, cilantro, parsley, and sometimes fenugreek or chives. It is a staple of Iranian cuisine, often served for special occasions and celebrations, and is famously paired with fish for the Persian New Year (Nowruz) to symbolize renewal.
🍳 View the full Persian Herb Rice recipe →
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is primarily a carbohydrate-rich meal from the rice, but it is also a significant source of dietary fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and various antioxidants from the abundant herbs. A typical serving generally falls in the range of 300-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil or butter used in its preparation.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Protein | 6.5 g |
| Carbs | 60 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Potassium | 280 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Magnesium | 45 mg |
| Phosphorus | 110 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120 µg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Vitamin K | 90 µg |
| Folate | 60 µg DFE |
Per 1 cup (200 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Sabzi Polo is deeply symbolic; the green herbs represent rebirth and the start of spring when eaten for Nowruz. Nutritionally, the massive quantity of fresh herbs used is unusual for a rice dish, transforming it from a simple starch into a potent source of phytonutrients and making it one of the most herb-forward rice preparations in world cuisine.
