Motanjen Khoreshe

Motanjen Khoreshe Recipe - Traditional Persian Lamb Fillet Stew

Region / culture: Persia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Motanjen Khoreshe is a traditional Persian dish that combines ground lamb meatballs with a savory broth, split peas, almonds, dried apricots, and prunes. This dish is bursting with flavor and is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

Motanjen Khoreshe has been a staple in Persian cuisine for centuries. It is a dish that is often served during special occasions and celebrations, as it is considered a delicacy in Persian culture.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) lean lamb fillets, ground
1 onion, finely chopped
0.25 tsp salt
1 pinch pepper
2 tbsp oil
2 cup beef broth
0.25 cup split peas, soaked overnight and drained
2 tbsp oil
1 cup almonds, chopped
0.5 cup dried apricots, chopped
0.5 cup prunes, chopped

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine the lamb, onion, salt, and pepper.
Form small meatballs with your hands and sauté them in 2 tbsp of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until nicely browned on all sides.
Add the broth and split peas to the skillet and bring it to a boil.
Lower the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 40 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat 2 tsp of oil in a smaller skillet and sauté the nuts and fruits until they are lightly browned.
After the meatballs have simmered for 40 minutes, add the sautéed nuts and fruits to the skillet and let it simmer, uncovered, for 40 minutes more.
Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and serve it with rice.

Variations

You can substitute the lamb with ground beef or chicken for a different flavor profile.
Add in your favorite dried fruits such as raisins or dates for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soak the split peas overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.

- Sautéing the nuts and fruits before adding them to the dish helps to enhance their flavors and adds a nice crunch to the final dish.

- Be sure to brown the meatballs on all sides before adding them to the broth to lock in the flavors and juices.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Motanjen Khoreshe with steamed rice or flatbread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the meatballs before simmering them in the broth helps to lock in the flavors and juices.

- Simmering the dish for an extended period of time allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and savory broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground beef or chicken instead of lamb for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute the almonds with pistachios or walnuts for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Motanjen Khoreshe can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Motanjen Khoreshe with fresh herbs such as parsley or mint for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Motanjen Khoreshe with a side of cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Motanjen Khoreshe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Motanjen Khoreshe contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Motanjen Khoreshe contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Motanjen Khoreshe contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Motanjen Khoreshe contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Motanjen Khoreshe is a rich source of vitamin E, iron, and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts and may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.

Summary

Motanjen Khoreshe is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is high in proteins and healthy fats. It is a great option for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal while still maintaining a balanced diet.

Summary

Motanjen Khoreshe is a delicious and nutritious dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a dear friend who had recently moved to a small village in Iran. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping tea and catching up on old times, she suddenly jumped up and disappeared into her pantry. Curious, I followed her and found her rummaging through a box of old recipe cards.

With a triumphant smile, she pulled out a faded, yellowed card and handed it to me. "This," she said excitedly, "is a recipe for Motanjen Khoreshe, a traditional Iranian dish that has been in my family for generations. I think you will love it."

I eagerly read through the ingredients and instructions, my mouth watering at the thought of the fragrant spices and tender meat that would come together to create this delicious dish. My friend saw my enthusiasm and insisted that I take the recipe home with me, promising that it would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

And so, armed with this precious recipe, I set out to recreate the flavors of Iran in my own home. I gathered the necessary ingredients, including lamb, eggplant, tomatoes, and a variety of spices that would give the dish its unique and rich flavor. As I chopped and sautéed, the kitchen filled with the tantalizing scents of cumin, turmeric, and cinnamon, transporting me back to that sunny day in my friend's kitchen.

The dish slowly simmered on the stove, the flavors melding together and creating a mouthwatering aroma that made my stomach growl in anticipation. Finally, it was time to taste the fruits of my labor. I scooped a generous portion of Motanjen Khoreshe onto a plate and took my first bite.

The flavors exploded in my mouth, each bite a symphony of spices and textures that danced across my taste buds. The tender meat melted in my mouth, while the eggplant added a creamy richness that balanced perfectly with the tangy tomatoes and aromatic spices. It was a culinary masterpiece, a dish that spoke of tradition and love, a dish that I knew would become a staple in my own kitchen.

As I sat at the table, savoring each bite of Motanjen Khoreshe, I thought back to that fateful day in my friend's kitchen. I was grateful for her generosity in sharing this recipe with me, for introducing me to a dish that would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire. And I knew that with each bite, I was not only tasting the flavors of Iran but also the warmth and hospitality of my dear friend.

So now, whenever I make Motanjen Khoreshe, I think of that day and the memories it holds. I think of the laughter and friendship that filled my friend's kitchen, and I am grateful for the culinary journey that brought me to this delicious dish. And as I serve it to my own family and friends, I pass on not just a recipe but a story, a connection to a faraway land and a tradition that will endure for generations to come.