Somagh Polo | Food rich in antioxidants

Last updated Aug 7, 2025

Somagh Polo

Somagh Polo is an authentic Iranian dish that is prepared from sumac and has a different taste and a very beautiful color. Due to the many properties of Somagh, this food is considered a useful medicine for the body and can be used in meals to prevent many diseases.

Somagh is a very useful food that is a strong antioxidant due to its abundant vitamin C and can be used as a tea. The main ingredient of this dish is rice, which you can eat as dinner or lunch. Enjoy its sour taste and use it in parties because of its beautiful color and give your tables a lot of charm. Yummcook.com teaches you the best and easiest way to cook this delicious dish.

If you’re interested in exploring more traditional Persian desserts, don’t miss out on Sheer Yakh, a refreshing and creamy frozen treat that perfectly complements dishes like Somagh Polo. Check out our detailed Sheer Yakh recipe to add a cool finish to your Persian meal!

Necessary ingredients for making Somagh Polo: Food rich in antioxidants

This dish is prepared from Somagh powder and use good quality rice to cook it and note that this recipe is for 2 people.

Rice	2 Cups
Minced meat	300 Grams
Sumac powder	2 Spoons
Oil	As needed
Onion	1
Of brewed saffron	1 Spoon
Salt, pepper, turmeric	As needed

How to prepare Somagh Polo: Food rich in antioxidants

Step 1

First, put the rice in water for 2 hours so that the water penetrates it so that you can prepare soft and high-quality rice, and after this time, put a suitable container on the heat and pour twice as much water in it. After it boils, put the rice in the water and add a spoonful of salt to it and drain the rice after 15 minutes.

Step 2

Grate the onion and mix it with minced meat and salt, pepper, turmeric, and ball it into very small balls and fry it in a small amount of oil. Pay attention that the meat changes color and does not dry out.

Step 3

Combine some of the drained rice with saffron and grease the bottom of the dish and pour the saffron rice in it and place some of the round meats on it and combine the rest of the rice with Somagh powder and again the round meats. place on it. You can do this in several steps to give your food a very beautiful appearance.

You can eat this dish with salad, Yogurt and fresh vegetables.

Benefits of Somagh Polo: Food rich in antioxidants

High antioxidant
Vitamin C
Improve the condition of diabetes
Cholesterol reduction
Improve muscle pain

Disadvantages of Somagh Polo: Food rich in antioxidants

Weight loss
Lower blood pressure
Digestive problems
Drug interaction
Sensitivity

What is Sumac Polo?

Sumac Polo (also called Somagh Polo) is a traditional Persian rice dish infused with sumac—a tart, lemony spice made from dried and ground sumac berries. The dish typically involves cooking fluffy basmati rice and mixing it with toasted sumac, giving it a reddish-pink hue and a distinctive tangy flavor.

The use of sumac in Persian cooking is widespread, but Sumac Polo is one of the most popular and visually striking examples of this spice’s culinary potential. The dish combines the delicate aroma of saffron (sometimes), the sour notes of sumac, and the subtle fragrance of herbs or nuts, creating a flavorful and aromatic meal.

The Origins of Somagh Persian Polo

Sumac has been used in Middle Eastern cooking for centuries, especially in Persian, Lebanese, and Turkish cuisines. In Iran, sumac is known as somagh and is cherished not only for its flavor but also for its health benefits.

The tradition of making Somagh Persian Polo dates back many generations and is often served during special occasions, family gatherings, and celebrations. The colorful appearance of the dish adds a festive touch to the table, while its unique taste appeals to those who love both sour and savory flavors.

Ingredients Used in Sumac Polo

To prepare authentic Sumac Polo, you will need the following ingredients:

Long grain basmati rice
Sumac (somagh) powder
Butter or oil
Onions (optional, finely chopped)
Saffron (optional, soaked in warm water)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs such as parsley or dill (optional)
Nuts like pistachios or almonds for garnish (optional)

Sumac powder is the star ingredient, offering the dish its characteristic tanginess and beautiful color. Some recipes incorporate saffron to elevate the aroma and add depth to the flavor.

How to Prepare Sumac Polo: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing Sumac Polo is a relatively simple process, but attention to detail ensures perfect rice texture and balanced flavors.

Step 1: Wash and Soak the Rice

Rinse the basmati rice several times until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes, which helps achieve fluffy, separate grains after cooking.

Step 2: Parboil the Rice

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and add the soaked rice. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the rice is partially cooked but still firm in the center. Drain and rinse under cold water.

Step 3: Prepare the Sumac Mixture

Mix the sumac powder with some butter or oil to make a paste. If using saffron, add it to the mixture as well.

Step 4: Layer and Steam the Rice

In a large pot, add a layer of rice, then spread the sumac mixture evenly on top. Repeat the layers until all rice and sumac are used. Cover the pot with a lid wrapped in a clean towel to absorb steam and cook the rice on low heat for 30-40 minutes. This steaming method, called “polo style,” allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with fresh herbs and nuts if desired. Serve alongside grilled meats, stews, or vegetables for a complete Persian meal.

Health Benefits of Somagh (Sumac) in Polo Food

Sumac is not just prized for its flavor; it also offers several health benefits:

Rich in antioxidants: Sumac contains compounds that help protect cells from damage.
Anti-inflammatory properties: It may reduce inflammation in the body, promoting overall health.
Digestive aid: Sumac has traditionally been used to improve digestion and reduce stomach discomfort.
Blood sugar regulation: Some studies suggest sumac may help manage blood sugar levels.

Including sumac in dishes like Sumac Polo not only enhances taste but also adds a nutritional boost, making the dish both delicious and beneficial.

Serving Suggestions for Polo Food

Sumac Polo pairs excellently with a variety of Persian dishes:

Kebab: Grilled lamb, chicken, or beef kebabs complement the tangy rice perfectly.
Stews: Rich Persian stews like Ghormeh Sabzi or Fesenjan offer contrasting flavors.
Yogurt-based sides: Mast-o-Khiar (yogurt with cucumber and herbs) balances the meal with freshness.
Salads: Shirazi salad, made with tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, adds crunch and acidity.

These combinations create a harmonious Persian dining experience that highlights the flavors of the polo food.

Variations of Somagh Persian Polo

There are many regional and personal variations to Somagh Polo:

Adding caramelized onions for sweetness.
Mixing in dried barberries (zereshk) for a burst of tartness.
Incorporating fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the rice layers.
Using different nuts such as walnuts or pine nuts as garnish.

Each variation adds a unique twist, allowing cooks to adapt the dish to their preferences or available ingredients.

What is Somagh Polo?
Somagh Polo is a traditional Iranian rice dish flavored with sumac, known for its unique tangy taste and beautiful reddish color.
What are the health benefits of sumac in Somagh Polo?
Sumac is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, making Somagh Polo a nutritious and delicious meal.
How do you prepare authentic Somagh Polo?
Authentic Somagh Polo is prepared by layering cooked rice with toasted sumac and spices, then steamed together to blend the flavors.
Can Somagh Polo be served with other dishes?
Yes! Somagh Polo pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, kebabs, or vegetable stews for a complete Iranian meal.

In the end

Somagh Polo is a very useful food and medicine, it is better to include it in the foods you use and enjoy its benefits. You can use sumac as a spice in chicken and fish or brew it as a tea and drink it. The use of Somagh is very effective in the cold season. Healthy foods have a great impact on your body’s health and energy. Make this delicious dish at home and share your thoughts with us.