Indulge in the rich flavors of Iran with Abgoosht, a comforting stew that embodies the essence of Iranian cuisine. This hearty dish features tender lamb simmered to perfection alongside wholesome chickpeas, velvety potatoes, and ripe tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. Each spoonful offers a tantalizing blend of savory goodness, perfect for warming the soul on chilly evenings or as a satisfying meal to share with loved ones. Experience the culinary heritage of Iran with this traditional delicacy, sure to leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

  - 1 lb (450g) lamb meat (preferably with bones), cut into chunks

  - 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained

  - 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

  - 2 large tomatoes, chopped

  - 1 large onion, finely chopped

  - 4 cloves garlic, minced

  - 1 teaspoon turmeric

  - 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  - 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

  - Salt to taste

  - 6 cups water

  - Fresh herbs such as mint, parsley, or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1- In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.

2- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3- Add the lamb meat to the pot and brown it on all sides.

4- Once the meat is browned, add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, ground black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir well to combine.

5- Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour.

6- After an hour, add the soaked chickpeas to the pot. Cover and continue to simmer for another hour or until the lamb and chickpeas are tender.

7- Once the lamb and chickpeas are tender, add the potato chunks to the pot. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until the potatoes are cooked through and the stew has thickened to your desired consistency.

8- Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

9- Serve the Abgoosht hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Traditionally, Abgoosht is served by separating the broth from the solids. The solids are mashed together with a pestle or fork and served with flatbread or rice, while the broth is enjoyed as a soup.

Enjoy your hearty Iranian Abgoosht!

Nutritional Values :

1 lb (450g) Lamb Meat (preferably with bones):

 - Calories: About 600 kcal

 - Fat: 45g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 50g 

Benefits: Provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. The fat content adds flavor and richness.

1 Cup Dried Chickpeas (soaked overnight and drained):

 - Calories: About 270 kcal

 - Fat: 2g

 - Carbohydrates: 45g

 - Protein: 15g 

Benefits: High in protein and fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Rich in vitamins and minerals.

2 Large Potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks):

 - Calories: About 320 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 72g

 - Protein: 7g 

Benefits: Good source of carbohydrates and dietary fiber. Provides vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium.

2 Large Tomatoes (chopped):

 - Calories: About 44 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 10g

 - Protein: 2g 

Benefits: Rich in vitamins C and K, and antioxidants like lycopene. Helps in reducing inflammation and boosting heart health.

1 Large Onion (finely chopped):

 - Calories: About 45 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 11g

 - Protein: 1g 

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and compounds that promote heart health and may help in regulating blood sugar levels.

4 Cloves Garlic (minced):

 - Calories: About 20 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 5g

 - Protein: 1g 

Benefits: Known for its antimicrobial properties and potential cardiovascular benefits. Adds flavor and health benefits.

1 Teaspoon Turmeric:

 - Calories: About 8 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin:

 - Calories: About 8 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Aids digestion and adds flavor. Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

1 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon:

 - Calories: About 6 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 2g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: May help in regulating blood sugar levels and has antioxidant properties.

1 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper:

 - Calories: About 6 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Contains piperine, which may enhance the absorption of nutrients and has antioxidant properties.

Salt to Taste:

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

6 Cups Water:

 - Calories: 0 kcal

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g 

Benefits: Essential for cooking and hydration.

Fresh Herbs (such as mint, parsley, or cilantro) for Garnish (optional):

 - Calories: Varies

 - Fat: Varies

 - Carbohydrates: Varies

 - Protein: Varies 

Benefits: Adds flavor and freshness. Provides vitamins and antioxidants.

Please keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on factors such as cooking methods and specific ingredients used.