Andy Makes Herb Rice with Scallions and Saffron _ From the Test Kitchen _ Bon Appétit
**The Art of Making Tadig: A Traditional Persian Rice Dish**
Three tablespoons of saffron water are added to the bottom of the pot, and what we're doing here is we're making tad deep, a traditional Persian rice dish. The process of making tad deep involves creating a crust at the bottom of the pot, which is essential for this dish.
The crust that forms on the bottom of the pot is called the "tad deep" or "crust," and it's made by layering ingredients such as lettuce, herbs, rice, and sometimes other items like quince, tomatoes, eggplant, potatoes. The dark green parts of the romaine lettuce are used to create the crust, which is placed at the bottom of the pot. A little bit of salt is added to enhance the flavor.
Next, a layer of rice is added on top of the lettuce crust. Rice is mixed with other ingredients to create "proto," which means plain rice in Farsi. The rice is scattered evenly over the lettuce crust and then a few holes are poked in it to allow steam to escape. This traditional technique helps to create a crispy crust at the bottom of the pot.
A kitchen towel is placed over the pot, followed by a lid, and then the pot is placed over medium heat for 12-15 minutes to start forming the tad deep crust. After that, the heat is reduced to medium-low, and the dish cooks for another 20-25 minutes, allowing the herbs to slightly darken and the crust to become crispy.
As the dish cooks, six tablespoons of cubed butter are added to the pot, which will melt and infuse the rice with flavor. The aroma of the cooking rice fills the air, tantalizing the senses.
Once the dish is complete, a third of it is scooped into a bowl to make saffron rice. This involves tossing the cooked rice with some water to give it a nice color and flavor. Next, the remaining ingredients are added on top of the saffron rice to create the finished dish.
To plate the tad deep, the saffron rice is scattered over more shallots, which add an oniony flavor and crunch to the dish. A little bit of dried rose petals is used as a garnish to finish the dish.
The finished product is presented on a platter, with the crispy shallots surrounding a bed of flavorful rice. The lettuce crust at the bottom adds a nice texture to the dish, making it a perfect side or main course. Traditionally, tad deep is served with fish, but in this article, we've showcased the rice as the star ingredient.
**The Importance of Tad Deep in Persian Cuisine**
Tad deep is an essential part of Persian cuisine, and its preparation is an art form that requires patience and attention to detail. The dish is often served at special occasions and is considered a staple in Iranian households. The combination of flavors and textures in tad deep makes it a delicious and satisfying meal.
**Using Tad Deep as a Side Dish or Main Course**
Tad deep can be used as either a side dish or main course, depending on the occasion. It pairs well with grilled meats, stews, and kebabs, making it a versatile ingredient in Persian cuisine. The crispy shallots add a nice crunch to the dish, while the saffron rice provides a flavorful base.
**Serving Tad Deep with Yogurt Sauce**
Traditionally, tad deep is served with yogurt sauce, which adds a tangy and creamy element to the dish. The combination of flavors and textures in yogurt sauce complements the crispy shallots and flavorful rice perfectly.
**Conclusion**
In conclusion, making tad deep is an art form that requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to experiment with new ingredients and techniques. By following this recipe, you can create a delicious and authentic Persian rice dish that's sure to impress your guests. Whether served as a side dish or main course, tad deep is a versatile ingredient that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen.