Baghali Polo ba Gardan: A Persian delight that brings people together

Dill, broad beans, saffron rice and tender braised lamb neck: a traditional dish that brings warmth and hospitality to the table.

Baghali Polo ba Gardan with dill rice, broad beans and braised lamb neck
Baghali Polo ba Gardan with dill rice, broad beans and braised lamb neck

Sometimes a special meal begins before the first bite reaches your plate: with the aroma of fresh dill, warm saffron rice and a dish prepared slowly, with plenty of patience.

Baghali Polo ba Gardan is a classic of Persian cuisine. Baghali Polo combines fluffy rice, aromatic dill and tender broad beans. This version is served with braised lamb neck - gardan in Persian. The meat cooks until it is exceptionally tender. Together with golden saffron rice and the crisp rice crust, tahdig, it makes a hearty yet fragrant dish.

A rice dish with a distinctive character

To make Baghali Polo, rice, dill and beans are layered and steamed together. Saffron adds colour and aroma. A golden, crisp crust often forms at the bottom of the pot - the tahdig that many diners look forward to throughout the meal.

A meal for special moments

In Iran, Baghali Polo is often served on special occasions and at family meals. For many people, dill rice with beans and meat is also part of a festive meal for Nowruz, the Persian New Year. The accompanying meat can vary: lamb shank is common, while Cuccini offers the version with braised lamb neck.

Dill, broad beans, rice and saffron form the aromatic base
Dill, broad beans, rice and saffron form the aromatic base

More than a dish

In many families, a meal like this means making time for one another. A large platter comes to the table, rice is shared, and everyone helps themselves to tender meat and crisp tahdig. A traditional dish becomes a moment spent together.

If you have not yet explored Persian cuisine, you can discover Baghali Polo ba Gardan at Cuccini in Düsseldorf. The restaurant combines Persian and Mediterranean cuisine and welcomes guests in a family atmosphere - including those trying Persian dishes for the first time.

A Persian table invites everyone to share a meal
A Persian table invites everyone to share a meal

Background on preparation and festive cuisine: Saveur, “Baghali Polo (Persian Dill and Fava Bean Rice)”; The Mediterranean Dish, “Baghali Polo”. Restaurant and dish information: Cuccini online menu, accessed 9 October 2026.