Lubia Polo

Lubia polo is the kind of Persian home cooking that rarely appears on restaurant menus but shows up constantly in family kitchens. Green beans and ground beef are cooked in a rich tomato sauce, then layered through steamed basmati rice so the flavors soak into every grain. It is simple, hearty, and endlessly adaptable. In Iran it is also made with lamb and split peas, but the beef-and-green-bean version is the one most home cooks grew up with, and it is forgiving enough for a weeknight.

Fluffy rice, tender beans, and saucy beef

The rice comes out fluffy and tinted with tomato, studded with tender green beans and savory bits of beef. A spoonful of plain yogurt on the side cuts the richness, and a crisp tahdig crust underneath is the best part. Make it on a busy weeknight and watch a whole pot disappear. The secret is salting the pot properly and not skimping on the butter — that crisp bottom bite is worth every calorie.

Craving more? Explore all Persian / Iranian Kitchen recipes.

Persian / Iranian recipes →