Save A rich, tangy-sweet Persian stew featuring tender chicken thighs simmered with walnuts and pomegranate molasses, offering classic flavors on a budget.
I have enjoyed making this stew for family gatherings because its rich flavors always impress and the ingredients are easy to find.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: 800 g (about 6) bone-in, skinless
- Walnut halves or pieces: 150 g (1 1/2 cups)
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Water or unsalted chicken broth: 750 ml (3 cups)
- Pomegranate molasses: 100 ml (about 1/2 cup)
- Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp
- Ground turmeric: 1/2 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 tsp
- Ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp plus more to taste
- Sugar: 1–2 tbsp to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Toast Walnuts:
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5&7 minutes until fragrant Let cool then finely grind in a food processor until resembling coarse sand
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large pot heat oil over medium heat Sauté the onion until soft and golden about 8 minutes Add garlic and cook 1 minute more
- Add Spices and Chicken:
- Stir in turmeric and cinnamon cook for 30 seconds until aromatic Add the chicken thighs season with salt and pepper and brown lightly on both sides about 4&5 minutes
- Simmer Stew:
- Sprinkle in the ground walnuts and pour in water or broth Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low cover and simmer for 30 minutes stirring occasionally
- Add Molasses and Sugar:
- Stir in pomegranate molasses and sugar if using Continue simmering uncovered for another 30&40 minutes stirring often until the sauce thickens and the chicken is very tender Adjust salt and sugar to taste
- Serve:
- Serve hot over steamed basmati rice
Save This stew has brought my family closer as we share meals filled with warmth and tradition.
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven Skillet Food processor or blender Wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (walnuts) May contain allergens if using commercially prepared pomegranate molasses or broth check labels
Nutritional Information
Calories approximately 540 Total Fat 34 g Carbohydrates 21 g Protein 37 g
Save Enjoy this comforting Persian stew with your favorite rice for a fulfilling meal that delights every time