Follow these steps for perfect results
onions
chopped
turmeric
chicken breasts
cubed, boneless, skinless
low-fat plain yogurt
saffron
dissolved in hot water
eggs
basmati rice
water
cooking oil
salt
black pepper
to taste
Chop onions and fry in oil until slightly golden.
Add turmeric to the onions and fry briefly.
Fry chicken in the onion-turmeric mixture until the color changes.
Add 1/2 - 1 cup of water and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer until chicken is cooked through.
While chicken is cooking, beat the yogurt until smooth.
Dissolve saffron in 1/2 cup of hot water.
Add saffron solution, salt, pepper, and optional eggs to the yogurt and mix well.
Wash rice.
Pour 3 cups of water into a large pot and bring to a boil.
Add rice and cook, stirring occasionally, until rice is al dente.
Drain the rice.
Pour several spoonfuls of oil and yogurt mix into a non-stick pot.
Add a thin layer of rice and flatten it using the back of a spoon.
Add a layer of chicken on top.
Add another layer of rice and flatten it.
Spread several more spoonfuls of the yogurt mix on the rice.
Continue layering chicken, rice, and yogurt mix until all ingredients are used.
Add some more oil on top.
Put the lid on and cook for about 1.5 hours on medium-low heat.
Remove the lid and let cool for a few minutes.
Place an inverted large dish over the pot and turn it over.
Tap the pot to loosen the contents.
The Tahcheen should fall onto the dish in one piece, with the Tah-Dig (crispy rice crust) on the outside.
Expert advice for the best results
For a richer flavor, use full-fat yogurt.
Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Be patient during the cooking process to achieve a perfect Tah-Dig.
Everything you need to know before you start
15 minutes
Can be partially made ahead by preparing the chicken and yogurt mixture.
Serve the Tahcheen on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs and a dollop of yogurt.
Serve with a side of Shirazi salad (cucumber, tomato, onion salad).
Serve with a dollop of plain yogurt.
Complements the saffron and savory flavors.
balances the richness of the dish
Discover the story behind this recipe
A festive and celebratory dish often served at weddings and special occasions.
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