Ghormeh Sabzi is a popular Iranian stew that is considered one of the national dishes of Iran. It is nearly impossible for you to visit an Iranian household and find the lady of the house not knowing how to cook Ghormeh Sabzi. It is one of the most essential homemade dishes in Iranian cuisine. In a word, this dish holds a special place in the hearts and kitchens of Iranian households passed down through generations from mothers to daughters. In fact, it is considered a culinary rite of passage for Iranian women to master the art of preparing Ghormeh Sabzi.
Ghormeh Sabzi is known for its rich and flavourful combination of herbs, meat, and beans. If we look into its wording, the word "ghormeh" means "stew" and the word "sabzi" refers to "greens" or "herbs" or “vegetables”. This popular dish typically consists of several key components including herbs, meat such as lamb shank or lamb shoulder, beans, dried limes as well as spices and seasonings. However, despite the usage of different herbs and vegetables in this dish, it is not cooked as a vegetarian dish as it usually contains meat.
The preparation of Ghormeh Sabzi involves using a variety of herbs that gives a unique fragrance to it. Usually, when Ghormeh Sabzi is being cooked in a home, everyone in the neighbourhood knows it's being prepared because its aroma fills the entire area. The herbs used in making this dish include parsley, fenugreek leaves (shambalileh), shivid, basil, cilantro, and chives, all of which are combined. Most importantly, dried limes are added to this dish which gives it a tangy and sweet flavour. Typically, lamb shank or lamb shoulder is also used, as it is tender and can be boneless or bone-in. This homemade dish is something no one can claim is tastier than any other dish in Iran.
Ghormeh Sabzi is a dish that should be cooked very slowly so it is quite time-consuming. For instance, if you usually prepare other dishes in one or two hours, Ghormeh Sabzi takes at least 4 hours to cook. Therefore, you must have patience and cook this dish with care and love. It is a testament to the dedication and passion of those who prepare it that makes this food a symbol of homemade comfort and authenticity.
In any case, Ghormeh Sabzi is made from a combination of various herbs, meat, different spices, dried limes, and finally, red kidney beans, resulting in an incredibly delicious dish. . It is the unmistakable fragrance and flavourful taste that makes Ghormeh Sabzi a communal and social experience.
It is essential to note that Ghormeh Sabzi must always be served with white rice. The other type of rices that are available at Rumi Palace such as Baghali Polo (rice with dill and lima beans) or Zereshk Polo (rice with barberries) do not complement Ghormeh Sabzi. That is because these rice dishes have their unique flavours, which might not harmonise with the original taste of Ghormeh Sabzi. Therefore, it is always recommended to serve Ghormeh Sabzi with white rice.
At Rumi Palace, we prioritise quality and authenticity. Our chefs meticulously select boneless meat to ensure tenderness, and the herb blend is crafted to perfection. Dried limes are sourced with care to maintain their unique sour and citrusy profile. Whether you are a connoisseur of Persian cuisine or new to its delights, our Ghormeh Sabzi is a must-try dish that captures the true spirit of Iran's culinary heritage.
We invite you to embark on a culinary journey to savour the authentic flavours of Ghormeh Sabzi in our restaurant. Our commitment to preserving the tradition and taste of this beloved Iranian dish is outstanding. We take pride in preparing Ghormeh Sabzi using the finest ingredients and time-honoured techniques to ensure an unforgettable dining experience.
