Go Back
+ servings
Shrimp Rice with Herbs

Shrimp Rice with Herbs: A Flavorful Persian Comfort Dish

This Shrimp Rice with Herbs is a delightful Persian dish combining shrimp, basmati rice, quinoa, and herbs for a nutritious meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Persian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Rice Base
  • 1 cup Basmati rice A fluffy texture that's perfect for this dish; consider substituting with brown rice for added nutrients.
  • ½ cup Brown basmati rice Introduces a nutty flavor; white rice can be used if you prefer a milder taste.
  • ½ cup Quinoa Adds protein and a delightful texture; feel free to replace this with more rice if desired.
For the Shrimp Mixture
  • 1 pound Raw shrimp (cleaned and deveined) The star protein of Shrimp Rice with Herbs, rich in nutrients; chicken or tofu are great substitutes for a different option.
  • 1 large Onion (chopped) The foundational flavor for the sauté; shallots can serve as a milder alternative.
  • 4 large Garlic cloves Infuses depth and aroma into the dish; fresh garlic is recommended over powdered.
For the Flavor Boosters
  • 3 tablespoons Olive oil Enriches the dish with healthy fats; you can use another oil if olive oil isn’t on hand.
  • 1 tablespoon Curry powder (or advieh) Lends warmth and complexity; any spice blend can serve as a substitute based on your taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Red pepper flakes Adds a kick of heat; adjust according to your preference—paprika allows for less heat.
  • ½ teaspoon Turmeric Brightens the color and provides health benefits; you may opt for fresh turmeric instead.
  • ½ teaspoon Ground cumin Contributes an earthy flavor; coriander is a suitable alternative if you're looking for a change.
  • ½ teaspoon Ground black pepper Elevates the overall taste; white pepper works if you prefer.
For the Fresh Herbs
  • 1 cup Cilantro (chopped) A fresh herb that brightens this Shrimp Rice with Herbs dish; parsley makes a fine substitute.
  • ½ cup Dill (chopped) Imparts a fresh, tangy flavor; fennel fronds can be used if dill isn't available.
  • ½ cup Green onions (chopped) Adds a mild onion flavor; scallions are an excellent alternative.
  • ¼ cup Fenugreek leaves (chopped, fresh or dried) Elevates the flavor profile; spinach can be used if you can’t find fenugreek.
For the Finishing Touches
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon juice Brightens the dish with its acidity; lime juice is a fine alternative.
  • teaspoon Saffron (dissolved) Provides a unique flavor and gorgeous color; consider omitting or using turmeric for color instead.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust according to your taste and any sodium in other ingredients.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet
  • Measuring cups
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Rice with Herbs
  1. In a large pot, bring 3¼ cups of water to a rolling boil along with ⅔ teaspoon salt and 1½ tablespoons olive oil. Add the brown basmati rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover to simmer for about 20 minutes. Once the brown rice is tender, stir in the quinoa and white basmati rice, cover again, and cook for an additional 20 minutes until all grains are fully cooked and fluffy.
  2. While the rice is cooking, heat 1½ tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until golden brown. Next, add the garlic and sliced red bell pepper, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Stir the cleaned and deveined shrimp into the vegetable mixture in the skillet, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until they start turning pink. Then, sprinkle in the curry powder, red pepper flakes, turmeric, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Mix well, allowing the spices to envelop the shrimp and veggies, and cook for another 4-5 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and vibrant.
  4. In a heavy pot, layer half of the cooked rice on the bottom, followed by the sautéed shrimp and vegetable mixture. Top with the remaining rice, then drizzle with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and the saffron water for a burst of flavor and stunning color. Cover the pot tightly and cook on medium-high heat for 5 minutes before reducing to a simmer for about 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Once the cooking time is complete, gently fluff the Shrimp Rice with Herbs using a fork, releasing the steamed grains. Serve the rice on a platter or in bowls, garnished with the chopped cilantro, dill, green onions, and fenugreek leaves.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Cook the rice and quinoa separately if you're unsure about their cooking times; this avoids mushy grains. Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the best flavor.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!