Traditional Iranian Tahchin: Saffron Rice Cake Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Basmati rice
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon saffron threads, steeped in 2 tablespoons hot water
  • 2 chicken breasts, boiled and shredded
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 1 cup barberries (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in 4 cups of water with 1 teaspoon of salt for 2 hours.
  2. Boil the chicken breasts in a pot with enough water to cover them. Once cooked, shred the chicken and set aside.
  3. In a pan, sauté the chopped onion and garlic in a little oil until they become translucent. Add the shredded chicken, turmeric, salt, and pepper, and cook for a few more minutes. Set aside.
  4. Drain the rice and add it to a large pot of boiling water. Cook the rice until it’s just underdone, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  5. In a bowl, beat the eggs then add the Greek yogurt and the saffron water. Mix well.
  6. Add the parboiled rice to the yogurt mixture and stir until all the grains are well coated.
  7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt the butter and spread it on the bottom of a baking dish. Spread half of the rice in an even layer.
  8. Spread the chicken mixture over the rice, then cover with the remaining rice. Press down gently to compress the layers.
  9. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the bottom is crispy and golden.
  10. Soak the barberries in a little warm water with a spoon of sugar (if using), then drain. Sprinkle the barberries on top of the tahchin before serving.
  11. Let the tahchin rest for a few minutes before flipping it onto a serving platter. Cut into pieces and serve hot.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Replace the chicken with cooked ground beef or lamb for a different protein option.
  • Add cooked shrimp or seafood to the filling for a seafood tahchin variation.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add a variety of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices in the filling, such as cumin, paprika, or dried herbs like thyme or oregano.
  • Try using different types of rice, such as jasmine or long-grain rice, for a twist on the texture and flavor.
  • Replace the barberries with dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet and tangy flavor.
  • Add nuts, such as slivered almonds or chopped pistachios, to the filling for added texture and crunch.
  • Use vegetable broth instead of water to cook the rice for more flavor.
  • Replace the saffron with turmeric or other natural food colorings for a different hue.
  • Instead of baking in a dish, shape the tahchin into individual patties and pan-fry them for a crispy exterior.

Recipe overview

Tahchin is a delightful and savory Persian dish that is often at the center of family gatherings and special occasions. It features a unique combination of ingredients including basmati rice, chicken, yogurt, and saffron, giving the dish its distinct flavor and aroma. The process of preparing Tahchin is a labor of love, requiring a bit of time and patience, but the end result is absolutely worth it! The dish is baked, resulting in a crispy golden layer on the outside and a flavorful, tender core on the inside. This defining contrast of textures is what sets Tahchin apart. If you're feeling adventurous, you can add barberries for an extra burst of flavor. In this recipe, we'll guide you step-by-step in creating this Persian masterpiece right in your kitchen. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned pro, you'll find this recipe straightforward and simple to follow. Enjoy the process, and even more, enjoy your Tahchin!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of rice?
    Yes, you can use a different type of rice, but keep in mind that the cooking time and texture may vary.
  2. Can I substitute the Greek yogurt?
    Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or labneh if desired.
  3. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
    Yes, you can use cooked beef, lamb, or even fish as an alternative to chicken.
  4. What can I use instead of saffron?
    If you don't have saffron, you can use turmeric as a substitute for color. However, saffron adds a unique flavor to the dish.
  5. Do I have to soak the rice?
    Yes, soaking the rice helps to achieve a better texture and prevents it from becoming mushy during cooking.
  6. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
    Yes, you can omit the chicken and add vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
  7. Can I make tahchin ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the tahchin in advance and reheat it before serving. It can also be served at room temperature.
  8. Can I freeze tahchin?
    It's not recommended to freeze tahchin as the texture and flavor may be affected. It is best enjoyed fresh.
  9. What can I serve with tahchin?
    Tahchin pairs well with a fresh salad, pickles, or a side of yogurt. It can also be served with grilled meats or kebabs.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking dish - A rectangular or square dish used for baking the tahchin.
  • Pot - A large pot for boiling the rice and cooking the chicken.
  • Pan - A frying pan for sautéing the onion and garlic.
  • Bowl - A mixing bowl for combining the yogurt, eggs, and saffron water.
  • Whisk - A utensil used for beating the eggs and mixing the yogurt mixture.
  • Spoon - A utensil for stirring and mixing ingredients.
  • Oven - An appliance used for baking the tahchin.
  • Aluminum foil - Used to cover the baking dish while baking.
  • Lid - A cover for the baking dish, if available.
  • Serving platter - A flat dish or platter for transferring and serving the tahchin.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the tahchin into individual servings.

Origin stories

Tahchin is a classic Persian dish, a true delight that hails from the culinary traditions of Iran. Interestingly, the name "Tahchin" means "arranged at the bottom" in Farsi, reflecting the unique cooking method of this dish. The fragrant basmati rice is layered with succulent pieces of chicken, and the bottom layer is crisped to golden perfection, creating a delightful contrast of textures. The use of saffron, a treasured spice in Persian cuisine, lends the dish its characteristic golden hue and subtly aromatic flavor. The optional garnish of barberries adds a tangy element, a signature flavor profile in many Persian dishes. As beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat, Tahchin is often prepared for special occasions and is seen as a festive dish in Iranian culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.