Village Life in northern Iran | Cooking Lamb Stew Under Rice & Pistachio with Date dessert

lamb

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: beef

Chicken is lower in fat, while beef is often more affordable.

dried fruits

🥗Healthier: fresh fruits

💰Cheaper: raisins

Fresh fruits add nutrients, while raisins are a cost-effective alternative.

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

Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes

Stir in sliced carrots and cook until softened, 3-4 minutes

Add cubed lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes

Mix in cumin, black pepper, and salt, stirring to combine

Add rinsed rice to the pot, spreading it evenly over the meat and vegetables

Pour in water until it covers the rice by about an inch

Add garlic cloves and bay leaves on top of the rice without stirring

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover, cooking for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender

Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes

Fluff the rice with a fork and mix in chickpeas and dried fruits if using

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: