How To Savor Zereshk Polo Ba Morgh: Tips for Enjoying Its Tangy Barberry Flavour

If you’re craving a dish that balances bold, tangy notes with buttery saffron rice, look no further than Zereshk Polo London. This classic Persian meal—fluffy basmati rice with barberries and saffron—typically comes served with tender chicken known as Zereshk Polo Ba Morgh. Popular in both home kitchens and renowned Persian restaurants, this dish is as comforting as it is festive.

Whether you’re exploring Persian cuisine for the first time or revisiting an old favourite, this guide will help you savour every spoonful of Zereshk Polo London to the fullest.

zereshk polo london, barberry rice, persian chicken dish, persian food london, persian restaurant

What Is Zereshk Polo Ba Morgh?

Let’s begin with the basics. Zereshk Polo Ba Morgh translates to “barberry rice with chicken.” The dish features long-grain basmati rice, typically layered with:

Sautéed dried barberries (zereshk)
Caramelised onions
A touch of sugar and saffron
Oven-baked or simmered chicken, infused with turmeric and tomato

It’s a staple on the menu of many Persian restaurants, particularly during celebrations, weddings, and family gatherings.

The Secret to Perfect Zereshk Polo London

The heart of Zereshk Polo London lies in its contrast of flavours. The barberries provide a sharp tanginess, balanced by sugar, saffron, and the savoury depth of well-seasoned chicken.

Here’s how to appreciate each bite:

Don’t skip the barberries – Their tartness is essential.
Mix well before serving – Saffron and barberry distribution makes each mouthful vibrant.
Let the rice steam – The best versions have fluffy rice with crisp tahdig (crunchy bottom).

These preparation steps are expertly followed by top London establishments like Mohsen Restaurant, a long-standing local favourite.

Where to Find Authentic Zereshk Polo Ba Morgh in London

Many diners search for the best Zereshk Polo London experience to taste authenticity. Mohsen Restaurant, located in Kensington, is an excellent choice. With over 25 years of serving Persian food London style, their approach to seasoning, texture, and presentation is traditional and elevated.

What sets them apart is:

Use of high-quality saffron and fresh barberries
Slow-simmered chicken with deep tomato-herb flavours
Balanced sweetness to offset barberry acidity

If you’re new to Persian cuisine, Mohsen offers a great entry point into the world of Zereshk Polo Ba Morgh.

How To Eat Zereshk Polo the Right Way

There’s no right or wrong way to enjoy food—but in Persian culture, small rituals enhance the experience. Follow these tips to get the most from your Zereshk Polo London plate:

1. Mix Carefully

Before eating, gently stir the barberries into the rice so each bite includes a mix of tart and fragrant saffron.

2. Pair It With Mast-o-Khiar

A cool cucumber and yoghurt dip balances the richness of the rice and chicken.

3. Add Sabzi Khordan

This plate of fresh herbs (mint, tarragon, radish) acts as a palate cleanser and adds a crisp texture to each bite.

4. Don’t Rush It

Persian meals are meant to be savoured slowly. Take time to notice how the ingredients play off one another.

Health Benefits of Zereshk Polo Ba Morgh

Beyond its deliciousness, this dish offers genuine health benefits:

Barberries are rich in antioxidants, especially berberine, which may aid digestion and lower blood sugar.
Saffron is known to boost mood and reduce inflammation.
Lean chicken provides protein without excessive fat.

Enjoying Persian food London style can be as nutritious as it is flavourful, especially when prepared with care and authentic ingredients.

Why Persian Rice Matters

Rice is more than a side—it’s an art form in Persian cuisine. The rice in Zereshk Polo Ba Morgh is steamed to perfection, with butter, saffron, and a fluffy yet firm texture. Achieving this takes:

Washing and soaking the rice beforehand
Boiling briefly, then draining
Steaming over low heat with saffron and butter

This process results in basmati grains that don’t stick together. At a high-quality Persian restaurant like Mohsen, this attention to detail ensures every dish of Zereshk Polo London is both comforting and luxurious.

Saffron: The Gold of the Dish

No conversation about Zereshk Polo Ba Morgh is complete without talking about saffron. This precious spice gives the dish its golden hue and floral aroma. Authentic Persian food London style always uses real saffron—not turmeric substitutes.

Good saffron is:

Deep red
Fragile in texture
Intense in aroma when steeped in hot water

This golden infusion is poured over the rice before steaming, elevating both the look and taste of the final dish.

Hosting with Zereshk Polo in London

If you’re looking to host a dinner party or impress guests, serving Zereshk Polo London style is always a winner. You can order from Mohsen Restaurant or prepare it at home using these tips:

Cook barberries just until they puff—don’t let them burn
Season your chicken with turmeric, garlic, and tomato for depth
Garnish with almond or pistachio slivers for added elegance

Final Thoughts: Tangy, Aromatic, Unforgettable

There’s a reason Zereshk Polo Ba Morgh is one of the most celebrated Persian dishes. It’s colourful, balanced, and infused with flavour and history. From the tartness of barberries to the comfort of saffron rice, this dish delivers satisfaction on every level.

Whether you’re visiting a Persian restaurant for the first time or a seasoned lover of Persian food London, don’t miss out on the experience of Zereshk Polo London done right.

For a truly authentic taste, visit Mohsen Restaurant in Kensington and enjoy Persian cooking at its finest.

152 Warwick Rd, Kensington, London W14 8PS Daily 12 pm to 10 pm – Closed on Tuesdays