Preparing a famous, thousand-year-old Iranian dish in the village on a cold winter day.

lamb

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: beef

Chicken is leaner and more affordable than lamb.

yellow split peas

🥗Healthier: green lentils

💰Cheaper: dried peas

Green lentils are nutritious and often less expensive.

saffron

🥗Healthier: turmeric

💰Cheaper: paprika

Turmeric offers color and health benefits at a lower cost.

potatoes

🥗Healthier: sweet potatoes

💰Cheaper: yams

Sweet potatoes add nutrients while being budget-friendly.

Soak yellow split peas in water for 1-2 hours.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in lamb pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.

Mix in tomato paste, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper; cook for 2 minutes.

Add soaked split peas, water, and bay leaves; bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.

Add dried lime and lime juice; cook for an additional 30 minutes.

In a separate pan, fry potato slices until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

Serve the stew hot, topped with fried potatoes.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary