Main Course · Dinner · Middle Eastern ·

Persian Pomegranate Lamb Stew with Walnuts and Saffron

This rich and flavorful Persian stew combines tender lamb, tangy pomegranate molasses, and crushed walnuts for a hearty meal that's perfect for any occasion.

5(480 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Persian Pomegranate Lamb Stew with Walnuts and Saffron — Main Course served and photographed from above
Prep
55 min
Cook
2 h 45 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Serves
6

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Marinating the Lamb

  1. 1

    Combine Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine lamb cubes with the chopped onion, minced garlic, ground turmeric, salt, and pepper.

  2. 2

    Marinate

    Mix thoroughly, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.

Preparing the Stew Base

  1. 1

    Heat Oil

    In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

  2. 2

    Brown Lamb

    Add marinated lamb, sauté until browned on all sides (about 8-10 minutes).

  3. 3

    Add Base Ingredients

    Stir in the pomegranate molasses, ground walnuts, and broth.

    Tip: Be careful not to burn the ground walnuts as they can become bitter.

How to Make Persian Pomegranate Lamb Stew with Walnuts and Saffron

Total time: 3 h 40 min · Yields 6 servings

  1. 1

    Simmering

    Cover and let the stew simmer gently on low heat for about 2 hours until the lamb is tender.

  2. 2

    Integrating Saffron

    Add the steeped saffron and continue to cook for an additional 20-30 minutes to marry the flavors.

  3. 3

    Adjusting Seasoning

    At the end, taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional sugar if needed.

Chef's Tips

    Frequently asked questions

    How long can I store leftovers?

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

    Can I make this dish ahead?

    Yes, you can prepare the stew a day in advance, which will also enhance the flavors. Reheat gently before serving.

    Are there any substitutions for pomegranate molasses?

    You can use a mix of pomegranate juice and balsamic vinegar as an alternative.

    Can I use different nuts instead of walnuts?

    Walnuts are traditional, but you can substitute with almonds or pecans for a different flavor.

    How do I reheat the stew?

    Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it becomes too thick.

    You might also love

    Browse all recipes

    Explore more from TastyFood

    Looking for something different? Browse by category.