Discover the rich flavors of Gormeh Sabzi, a traditional Persian herb stew. This aromatic dish features tender lamb or beef, a blend of fresh herbs, and tangy dried limes. Perfect for a comforting meal, Gormeh Sabzi combines savory ingredients to create a hearty and delicious stew that showcases the essence of Persian cuisine. Ideal for those seeking an authentic taste of Iran, this recipe is a must-try for food enthusiasts.

Ingredients:

- 500g (1 lb) lamb or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped

- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

- 1 cup fresh fenugreek leaves (or 1/4 cup dried fenugreek leaves)

- 1/2 cup fresh chives (or 1/4 cup dried chives)

- 2 dried limes, pierced with a fork

- 1 tablespoon turmeric

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

- 1 tablespoon tomato paste

- 1 cup water or beef broth

- 1 cup kidney beans (soaked overnight and drained, or canned beans)

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat:

  - Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.

  - Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

  - Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

  - Add the lamb or beef pieces and cook until browned on all sides.

Spice It Up:

  - Add turmeric, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.

Herbs and Limes:

  - Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.

  - Add the chopped parsley, cilantro, fenugreek leaves, and chives. Mix thoroughly.

  - Gently press the dried limes with a fork to release their flavor and add them to the pot.

Simmer:

  - Pour in the water or beef broth and bring to a boil.

  - Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Add Beans:

  - If using dried kidney beans, add them to the pot about 30 minutes before the stew is done. If using canned beans, add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Adjust Seasoning:

  - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You may add a bit more salt or pepper according to your preference.

Serve:

  - Gormeh Sabzi is traditionally served over basmati rice. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful and hearty Gormeh Sabzi, a classic Persian stew that’s sure to impress!

Nutritional Values:

Lamb or Beef (500g):

- Calories: 1,200 (approximately)

- Protein: 100g

- Fat: 85g

- Iron: 6mg (33% DV)

- Vitamin B12: 6mcg (100% DV)

Benefits:

- Protein supports muscle growth and repair.

- Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood.

- Vitamin B12 is important for nerve function and red blood cell formation.

Onion (1 large):

- Calories: 45

- Carbohydrates: 11g

- Fiber: 2g

- Vitamin C: 10mg (11% DV)

Benefits:

- Antioxidants help reduce inflammation and protect cells.

- Fiber supports digestive health.

Garlic (3 cloves):

- Calories: 13

- Carbohydrates: 3g

- Fiber: 0.6g

- Vitamin C: 1mg (1% DV)

Benefits:

- Antioxidants contain allicin, which has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

- May help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons):

- Calories: 240

- Fat: 27g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

Benefits:Provides essential fatty acids that support cell function.

Parsley (1 cup):

- Calories: 22

- Carbohydrates: 4g

- Fiber: 2g

- Vitamin C: 80mg (89% DV)

- Vitamin K: 246mcg (205% DV)

Benefits:

- Vitamin C boosts the immune system and skin health.

- Vitamin K is important for bone health and blood clotting.

Cilantro (1 cup):

- Calories: 21

- Carbohydrates: 4g

- Fiber: 1g

- Vitamin C: 10mg (11% DV)

- Vitamin K: 62mcg (52% DV)

Benefits:

- Antioxidants support detoxification and digestive health.

- Vitamin K aids in bone health.

Fenugreek Leaves (1 cup fresh or 1/4 cup dried):

- Calories: 34 (fresh), 88 (dried)

- Carbohydrates: 6g (fresh), 17g (dried)

- Fiber: 2g (fresh), 6g (dried)

- Iron: 2mg (fresh), 7mg (dried)

Benefits:

- Iron supports blood health and prevents anemia.

- Fiber aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar.

Chives (1/2 cup):

- Calories: 11

- Carbohydrates: 2g

- Fiber: 1g

- Vitamin C: 15mg (17% DV)

- Vitamin K: 30mcg (25% DV)

Benefits:

- Vitamin C enhances immune function.

- Vitamin K supports bone health and blood clotting.

Dried Limes (2):

- Calories: 20

- Carbohydrates: 5g

- Fiber: 2g

- Vitamin C: 20mg (22% DV)

Benefits:

- Adds tanginess and aids in digestion.

- Vitamin C boosts immunity and skin health.

Turmeric (1 tablespoon):

- Calories: 24

- Carbohydrates: 4g

- Fiber: 1g

- Iron: 2mg (11% DV)

Benefits:Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon):

- Calories: 8

- Carbohydrates: 1g

- Fiber: 0.5g

- Iron: 1mg (6% DV)

Benefits:

- Iron supports blood health.

- Antioxidants may help with digestion and immune support.

Black Pepper (1 teaspoon):

- Calories: 6

- Carbohydrates: 1g

- Fiber: 0.5g

Benefits:Piperine enhances nutrient absorption and may have anti-inflammatory effects.

Salt (1 teaspoon):

- Calories: 0

- Sodium: 2,300mg (100% DV)

Benefits:Regulates fluid balance in the body.

Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon):

- Calories: 13

- Carbohydrates: 3g

- Vitamin C: 2mg (2% DV)

Benefits:Lycopene, an antioxidant, may help reduce the risk of certain diseases.

Water or Beef Broth (1 cup):

- Calories: 15 (broth, depending on fat content)

Benefits:Provides essential fluids and nutrients when using broth.

Kidney Beans (1 cup):

- Calories: 225 (cooked)

- Carbohydrates: 40g

- Fiber: 13g

- Protein: 15g

- Iron: 5mg (28% DV)

Benefits:

- Fiber supports digestive health and regulates blood sugar levels.

- Protein helps with muscle growth and repair.

Gormeh Sabzi combines nutrient-rich ingredients to create a hearty and flavorful stew. The meat provides high-quality protein, while the herbs and spices add essential vitamins, antioxidants, and digestive benefits. This dish offers a balanced mix of nutrients that contribute to overall health and well-being.