Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of sizzling shrimp and fragrant herbs fills my kitchen, igniting a wave of warmth and nostalgia. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Persian Shrimp Rice with Herbs, or Meygoo Polo, a vibrant dish that transforms a simple dinner into a joyful family feast. This recipe brings together a delightful mix of textures and flavors, effortlessly showcasing brown rice and quinoa for a health-conscious twist without sacrificing that classic fluffy basmati feel. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers quick prep and the satisfaction of serving a gourmet meal that’s gluten-free and high in protein. Packed with wholesome ingredients and a burst of culinary tradition, it’s bound to become a staple in your home. Ready to dive into a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious? Let’s get cooking! Why is Meyergoo Polo so special? Unique Flavors: This dish combines the aromatic goodness of shrimp with a vibrant medley of herbs and spices, delivering an unforgettable taste experience. Nutrient-Packed: Infusing brown rice and quinoa not only enhances the traditional basmati texture but also boosts the protein content, making it a wholesome meal. Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this simple recipe offers gourmet results without hours of preparation, just like our Sticky Chicken Rice. Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the colorful presentation and delightful flavors, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners. Versatile Ingredient Substitutions: With options like chicken or tofu, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand! Shrimp Rice with Herbs Ingredients • Elevate your meal with these delightful ingredients! For the Rice Basmati Rice – The base grain provides a fluffy texture; rinse it before use to remove excess starch. Brown Basmati Rice – Adds whole grain goodness for extra fiber and nutrients while complementing the white rice’s texture. Quinoa – A protein-rich alternative that enhances the health profile; can be used in place of white rice for a nutritious boost. For the Flavor Base Olive Oil – Used for sautéing, it adds richness; feel free to substitute with vegetable oil if preferred. Onion – Adds a sweet and savory depth; make sure to sauté until golden for maximum flavor. Garlic – Provides aromatic goodness; mincing ensures it infuses well into the dish. Red Bell Pepper – Adds color and sweetness; slicing it thinly helps with even cooking. Curry Powder/Advieh – A blend of spices that brings authentic Persian flavor; adjust to your spice preference. Red Pepper Flakes – Introduces a touch of heat; modify the quantity based on your spice tolerance. Turmeric – Lends earthiness and a beautiful golden hue to the dish. Ground Cumin & Black Pepper – Contribute warmth and depth of flavor. For the Fresh Garnish Cilantro – Fresh herb to brighten flavors; parsley is a good substitute if you prefer. Dill – Provides unique, vibrant notes; fresh is ideal, but dried works in a pinch. Green Onions – Add crunch and freshness; chop finely for the best texture. Fenugreek Leaves – Offers distinct flavor; swap dried for fresh if the latter is unavailable. For the Protein and Finish Raw Shrimp – The star of the dish, cleaned and deveined; frozen shrimp can be a convenient alternative. Lemon Juice – Brightness to enhance flavors; always go for fresh for the best taste. Saffron – Adds a luxurious flavor and beautiful coloring; dissolve in warm water before use for optimal infusion. There you have it—each ingredient not only contributes to the remarkable flavor profile of this Shrimp Rice with Herbs but also ensures a nourishing meal for you and your loved ones! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Rice with Herbs Step 1: Cook the Rice Begin by boiling 3¼ cups of water in a large pot. Add a teaspoon of salt and a drizzle of olive oil for flavor. Once boiling, stir in the brown rice and reduce the heat, allowing it to simmer gently for 20 minutes. After this, incorporate the quinoa and basmati rice, cover the pot tightly, and continue simmering for about 20 more minutes until all grains are tender and fluffy. Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp In a separate large skillet, heat a couple tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown, about 5 minutes. Then, mix in minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the pepper softens. Finally, toss in the cleaned shrimp and sauté just until pink and opaque, about 4-5 minutes, before removing everything from the skillet and setting aside. Step 3: Season the Mixture In the same skillet, add the curry powder (or advieh), red pepper flakes, turmeric, ground cumin, and black pepper, stirring to release their aromas for about a minute. Then return the shrimp and sautéed vegetables to the skillet, mixing well to coat them in the spices. Add freshly chopped dill, cilantro, and reserved fenugreek leaves for brightness and depth of flavor. Stir everything thoroughly to meld the flavors together beautifully. Step 4: Assemble the Dish In a heavy-bottomed pot, begin layering the shrimp and vegetable mixture over the cooked rice and quinoa blend. Drizzle lemon juice and saffron water on top to infuse aroma and color. Carefully push the layers together, ensuring even distribution, then cover the pot with a tight lid to steam on low heat for 25 minutes. This final step will allow all the flavors to meld wonderfully. Step 5: Serve the Dish Once steaming is complete, gently fluff the shrimp rice with a fork to separate the grains while mixing in the vibrant flavors of the herbs and shrimp. Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs, if desired. This Persian Shrimp Rice with Herbs makes for a colorful, aromatic centerpiece that is sure to delight at your family dinner table. What to Serve with Persian Shrimp Rice? Elevate your meal experience with delightful side dishes that harmonize beautifully with this fragrant rice creation. Persian Tomato Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes and cucumbers drizzled with lemon juice; it balances the richness of shrimp perfectly. Mint Yogurt Sauce: Creamy and tangy, this sauce adds a cooling element that complements the spice of the shrimp rice, making every bite harmonious. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal vegetables offer a beautiful contrast in textures while deepening the meal’s overall flavor profile. Serve alongside warm, fluffy pita bread. The pillowy texture is perfect for scooping up shrimp rice and extra sauce, adding an interactive dining element. Hummus with Pita Chips: Creamy and earthy hummus brings nutty flavors that pair wonderfully with the shrimp’s brightness while adding protein-rich content. Citrus-Infused Quinoa Salad: Vibrant quinoa salad with citrus dressing enhances the meal’s depth and brings a delightful crunch that guests will adore. Saffron-Infused Couscous: The nutty flavor and fluffy texture of couscous resonate well with the shrimp rice, creating a delightful Mediterranean fusion. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh herbs over your sides to create a visually tempting plate. Shrimp Rice with Herbs Variations Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these fun twists! Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different flavor profile and texture. Both options offer a hearty, nutritious base. Vegetable Medley: Experiment with colorful vegetables like peas, carrots, or even zucchini. This not only enhances nutrition but also adds a delightful visual appeal. Spice Up: Swap out the curry powder for garam masala or a different spice blend to tailor the dish to your taste preferences. A touch of cinnamon could elevate the flavor beautifully. Herb Enhancements: Try fresh mint or basil alongside cilantro for an invigorating touch. Their unique flavors will create a refreshing twist on traditional Meygoo Polo. Add Heat: Adjust the heat level by incorporating fresh chopped chilies or even a dash of hot sauce to the sauté for an extra kick. Spice lovers will relish this fiery upgrade. Grain Variations: Replace brown rice entirely with farro or barley for a chewy texture while still keeping it wholesome. Both grains are packed with fiber and nutrients, complementing the shrimp beautifully. Dairy-Free Delight: For a creamier texture, sprinkle some coconut milk while layering the rice. It’ll create a rich, tropical experience you won’t forget! Serve with a Twist: Pair the finished dish with a dollop of herbed yogurt or spicy chutney instead of traditional sides. This creative addition adds layers of flavor, enhancing every bite! Don’t forget to check out our Grilled Shrimp Bowl or Honey Fried Shrimp if you’re in the mood for more vibrant shrimp dishes! Helpful Tricks for Shrimp Rice with Herbs Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, about 4-5 minutes, to avoid rubbery texture. Rinse Grains Well: Rinse both the brown rice and quinoa under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve fluffy rice. Layering Technique: When assembling the dish, ensure even layering of shrimp and vegetables over the rice to distribute flavors thoroughly. Adjust Spice Levels: Taste the mixture before assembling the dish; adjust red pepper flakes and curry powder to match your preferred heat levels. Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Always use fresh herbs as a garnish; they enhance the dish’s aroma and elevates the presentation of your Shrimp Rice with Herbs. Make Ahead Options These Persian Shrimp Rice with Herbs are a fabulous meal prep option for busy weeknights! You can prepare the rice and quinoa mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just cook it as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve texture. The sautéed vegetables and shrimp can also be cooked ahead of time and kept separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat everything gently on the stove, layering the shrimp and veggies over the rice, and steam for about 10 minutes to bring back that freshly cooked flavor. This ensures your dish remains just as delicious, saving you precious time without compromising quality! How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Rice with Herbs Fridge: Store any leftover shrimp rice with herbs in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Keep it in the coldest part to maintain freshness. Freezer: You can freeze the shrimp rice with herbs for up to 2-3 months. Place it in a freezer-friendly container, allowing a little space for expansion as it freezes. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Room Temperature: For safety, do not leave the dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours to avoid foodborne illnesses. Shrimp Rice with Herbs Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! Opt for raw, medium to large-sized shrimp that are cleaned and deveined for the best results. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but you can use frozen shrimp as well—just make sure to thaw them thoroughly in the refrigerator before cooking. Look for shrimp that are firm, slightly translucent, and have little to no odor. What is the best way to store leftovers? You can store any leftover shrimp rice with herbs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Be sure to keep it in the coldest part of the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of water before warming it on the stove or in the microwave to bring back some moisture! Can I freeze Shrimp Rice with Herbs? Sure thing! To freeze, place the shrimp rice in a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space at the top for expansion. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, move it to the fridge to thaw overnight, then reheat gently with a splash of water to prevent drying out. What should I do if my shrimp becomes rubbery during cooking? Very! To avoid rubbery shrimp, stick to a cooking time of about 4-5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them, as shrimp cook quickly! If you notice any grayish coloration still present, they likely need a bit more time, but be cautious not to overdo it. Are there any dietary considerations for this dish? Of course! This dish is gluten-free and high in protein, making it a great choice for a nutritious meal. If you’re serving it to someone with allergies, ensure to check that the shrimp and spices used are free from allergens—particularly shellfish allergies. If adapting for dietary preferences, consider replacing shrimp with tofu or chicken. How can I tell when the rice is perfectly cooked? Absolutely! The rice will be beautifully fluffy when it’s done; after the cooking time, check to see if the grains are tender. If there’s still liquid in the pot, cover it and let it steam for a few more minutes on low heat. Rinsing the grains before cooking also helps reach that perfect texture. Delicious Shrimp Rice with Herbs for a Healthy Feast This Shrimp Rice with Herbs is a vibrant and healthy dish featuring shrimp, brown rice, and quinoa for a nutritious feast. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrSteaming Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: PersianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Rice1 cup Basmati Rice Rinse before use1 cup Brown Basmati Rice Whole grain goodness1/2 cup Quinoa Protein-rich alternativeFor the Flavor Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Or vegetable oil if preferred1 medium Onion Sauté until golden3 cloves Garlic Minced1 medium Red Bell Pepper Thinly sliced1 tablespoon Curry Powder/Advieh Adjust to spice preference1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Modify based on spice tolerance1/2 teaspoon Turmeric For color1/2 teaspoon Ground Cumin1/2 teaspoon Black PepperFor the Fresh Garnish1/4 cup Cilantro Fresh1/4 cup Dill Fresh or dried2 stalks Green Onions Chop finely2 tablespoons Fenugreek Leaves Fresh or driedFor the Protein and Finish1 pound Raw Shrimp Cleaned and deveined2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Always fresh1/4 teaspoon Saffron Dissolve in warm water Equipment large potSkilletmeasuring cupsMeasuring spoonswooden spoonLid for pot Method Cooking RiceBoil 3¼ cups water in a pot. Add salt and oil. Stir in brown rice, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes. Incorporate quinoa and basmati rice, cover, and simmer for 20 more minutes.Prepare ShrimpHeat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until golden, add garlic and red bell pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes. Add shrimp and sauté until pink, about 4-5 minutes.Season MixtureAdd spices to the skillet, stir for a minute, return shrimp and vegetables, and add herbs. Mix well.Assemble DishLayer shrimp and veggies over the rice blend. Drizzle lemon juice and saffron water. Cover and steam on low heat for 25 minutes.ServeFluff the rice and mix in flavors. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg NotesUse fresh herbs for garnish to elevate flavor and presentation. Adjust spices according to taste. 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