Khoresht-e Gheimeh, a classic Persian stew, is a staple in Iranian cuisine, known for its unique combination of meat, split peas, and a rich tomato base, often garnished with fries. This guide will walk you through creating this flavorful dish.
Contents
Ingredients
For the Stew:
- Lamb or beef, diced – 500g
- Yellow split peas – 1 cup
- Onion, finely chopped – 1 large
- Tomato paste – 3 tablespoons
- Dried limes (Limoo Amani) – 4 to 5
- Turmeric powder – 1 teaspoon
- Cinnamon – ½ teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil – 3 tablespoons
- Water – 4 cups
For the Garnish:
- Potatoes, cut into fries – 2 large
- Oil for frying
Equipment
- Large pot
- Frying pan
Preparing the Stew
- Sauté Onions and Meat: In a large pot, heat oil and sauté onions until golden. Add the diced meat, turmeric, and cinnamon. Cook until the meat is browned.
- Cook Split Peas: In a separate pot, boil split peas until they are half-cooked, then drain.
- Combine Ingredients: Add tomato paste to the meat and onions. Cook for a few minutes. Add the half-cooked split peas, dried limes, salt, pepper, and water.
- Simmer the Stew: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have blended.
Preparing the Garnish
- Fry the Potatoes: Cut the potatoes into fries. Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the potatoes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Serving Khoresht-e Gheimeh
- Serve the Stew: Check the seasoning of the stew and adjust if necessary. The stew should have a thick, rich consistency.
- Add Garnish: Serve the stew hot, topped with the crispy potato fries.
- Accompaniments: Typically, Khoresht-e Gheimeh is served with basmati rice.
Tips for Perfect Khoresht-e Gheimeh
- Dried Limes: Pierce the dried limes before adding them to the stew for better infusion of their tart flavor.
- Consistency: Ensure the stew isn’t too thin. It should have a hearty, thick texture.
- Split Peas: Don’t overcook the split peas at the beginning, as they will continue to cook in the stew.
Khoresht-e Gheimeh is a dish that brings a taste of Persian tradition to your dining table. Its rich flavors and textures make it a beloved choice for everyday meals and special occasions alike. For more insights into the world of Persian cuisine, don’t miss 10 Best Persian Foods to Try.
