Ghormeh SabziPhoto Credit: "© [Emojibb.Family] / Adobe Stock

 

Experience the enchanting flavors of Iran with a twist of luxury by adding saffron to the beloved dish of Ghormeh Sabzi. This traditional Persian stew, renowned for its aromatic herbs and tender meat, reaches new heights of culinary delight when infused with the exquisite essence of saffron.  In this blog post, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating a tantalizing pot of Ghormeh Sabzi with the magical touch of saffron. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Persian cuisine!

Ingredients:

  • 500g lamb or beef, cubed
  • 2 cups chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, and fenugreek)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 dried limes (limoo amani), pierced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • A pinch of Maha saffron threads

Method:

  1. Sauté the Aromatic Herbs In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Then, add the chopped herbs and continue cooking for a few minutes until they wilt and release their captivating aroma.
  2. Brown the Meat Push the sautéed herbs and onions to one side of the pot and add the cubed meat to the other side. Brown the meat on all sides, allowing it to develop a rich caramelized exterior.
  3. Infuse with Flavors Sprinkle the turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper over the meat and herb mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Add the dried limes and saffron threads, which will infuse the stew with their distinctive flavors and hues. For an extra touch of fragrance, you 
  4. Simmer to Perfection Pour enough water into the pot to cover the ingredients. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 2-3 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together while ensuring the meat becomes tender and succulent.
  5. Adjust the Seasoning Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices to enhance the flavors to your liking.
  6. Serve and Indulge Ghormeh Sabzi with Saffron is traditionally enjoyed with fragrant Persian rice, such as Chelow or Polo. Plate the stew alongside the rice, allowing the aromatic flavors to mingle. Garnish with a sprinkle of saffron threads for an enticing presentation. Every spoonful of this saffron-infused delight will transport you to the vibrant culinary heritage of Iran.

Ghormeh Sabzi: Photo Credit: "© [FomaA] / Adobe Stock