Ghormeh Sabzi Recipe

Ghormeh Sabzi is a traditional and beloved Iranian stew, renowned for its rich flavors and aromatic herbs. This dish holds a special place in Persian cuisine and is cherished by many. Below is a comprehensive guide to preparing a delicious Ghormeh Sabzi.

Ingredients for 4 Servings

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Beans:

   • Rinse the red kidney beans or pinto beans thoroughly and place them in a bowl with water.
   • Soak the beans overnight or for at least 6 hours. This reduces cooking time and improves digestibility.
   • Drain and rinse before using.

2. Sautéing Onion and Spices:

   • Peel and finely chop the onion.
   • In a large pot, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent.
   • Stir in turmeric and black pepper, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aroma.

3. Adding Meat:

   • Cut the meat into bite-sized cubes.
   • Add the meat to the pot and sear on all sides until browned.
   • This step enhances the flavor of the stew and locks in the juices.

4. Incorporating Beans and Water:

   • Add the drained beans to the pot.
   • Pour in enough water to submerge the ingredients by about an inch.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer.
   • Cover and let cook for about an hour, allowing the beans and meat to tenderize.

5. Preparing the Herbs:

   • Wash the fresh herbs thoroughly to remove any dirt.
   • Finely chop the parsley, cilantro, fenugreek, and chives.
   • In a separate pan, heat a little vegetable oil and sauté the herbs until they darken in color, releasing a rich aroma. This step intensifies the flavor of the stew.

6. Combining Herbs with the Stew:

   • Once the beans and meat have simmered for about an hour, add the sautéed herbs to the pot.
   • Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

7. Adding Dried Limes and Seasoning:

   • Pierce the dried Persian limes with a fork or knife to help release their citrusy flavor into the stew.
   • Add them to the pot and gently stir.
   • Adjust salt and, if desired, add verjuice or a splash of fresh lemon juice for additional tanginess.

8. Simmering:

   • Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 2-3 hours.
   • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
   • The longer the stew cooks, the deeper the flavors will develop.

9. Serving:

   • Once the stew thickens and flavors meld, remove from heat.
   • Serve hot over steamed basmati rice for an authentic Persian experience.

Tips for the Best Ghormeh Sabzi

• Herb Selection: Use fresh parsley, cilantro, fenugreek, and chives for authentic flavor.
• Sautéing Herbs: Cook herbs until darkened but not burned to enhance taste.
• Dried Limes: Pierce the limes before adding to release their citrusy flavor.
• Slow Cooking: Let the stew simmer for hours to tenderize the meat and blend flavors.

By following these steps and tips, you can prepare a traditional Ghormeh Sabzi that captures the essence of Persian cuisine. Enjoy your meal! If you are in Coquitlam, you can find fresh and frozen herbs along with halal meat at Pasargad Supermarket.