Persian Beef-and-Split-Pea Stew

Ingredients for Persian Beef-and-Split-Pea Stew

• 4 medium onions, chopped (about 950ml )

• 45ml vegetable oil

• 450g boneless beef chuck, cut into 3/4-inch cubes

• 1/2 teaspoons crumbled saffron threads

• 1/4 teaspoons turmeric

• 950ml water

• 1 (800g) can crushed tomatoes

• 120ml dried yellow split peas, picked over and rinsed

• 60ml tomato paste (preferably Turkish)

• 2 dried Omani lemons (optional), pierced in several places with a small sharp knife

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoons ground allspice

• 2 to 45ml fresh Key lime or lemon juice

• Accompaniments: cooked basmati rice

• radishes

• fresh mint and basil leaves

How to make Persian Beef-and-Split-Pea Stew

Cook onions in oil in a 4-quart heavy pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, 15 to 20 minutes.

Pat meat dry and toss with 1 teaspoon salt. Increase heat to high, then add meat, saffron, and turmeric to onions and cook, stirring frequently, until meat is no longer pink, about 5 minutes.

Stir in water and tomatoes, then simmer, covered, 1 hour.

Stir in split peas, tomato paste, Omani lemons (if using), cinnamon, allspice, and 1/2 teaspoons pepper and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until meat is very tender, 1 to 1 1/4 hours more. Discard Omani lemons and stir in salt and Key lime juice to taste.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.