Description
This Persian-inspired herb and beef stew with rice is a delightful and aromatic dish that brings together tender beef, a medley of fresh herbs, and flavorful spices. The stew is simmered to perfection, creating a rich and comforting meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Stew:
- 1½ pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups water or low-sodium beef broth
Herb Mixture:
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ cup chopped fresh dill
- 4 green onions, chopped (white and green parts)
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon dried fenugreek leaves (optional but traditional)
Additional:
- Cooked basmati rice, for serving
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides for about 6–8 minutes. Set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the remaining oil and sauté the onion until golden. Add garlic and turmeric, cook for 1 minute.
- Cook the Stew: Return the beef to the pot, season with salt and pepper, add water or broth. Simmer covered for 1 hour. Meanwhile, dry sauté the herbs in a skillet until fragrant.
- Combine and Simmer: Add sautéed herbs to the stew, simmer for another 45–60 minutes until meat is tender. Stir in lemon juice, adjust seasoning, and serve over basmati rice.
Notes
- Fenugreek adds a signature Persian aroma and flavor—use it if you can find it.
- This stew is similar in style to Ghormeh Sabzi but simplified for everyday cooking.
- For a deeper flavor, make the stew a day ahead and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Simmering
- Cuisine: Persian, Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups stew with rice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
