Authentic Qorme Sabzi Recipe – A Flavorful Persian Stew
Qorme Sabzi is a beloved Iranian dish that brings together a combination of tender meat, fresh herbs, and hearty beans. It’s a comforting, deeply savory stew, enjoyed across all of Iran for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. This traditional Persian recipe has been passed down through generations, making it a staple at gatherings and special occasions. Join me in exploring how to make this iconic dish, the ultimate comfort food that encapsulates the heart of Iranian home cooking.
Qorme Sabzi
A traditional Persian stew made with tender meat, fresh herbs, and kidney beans, known for its unique savory flavor.
🛒 Ingredients
- ▪ 500 g beef stew meat, boneless
- ▪ 1 large onion, finely chopped
- ▪ 250 g vegetable oil
- ▪ 5-6 dried limes
- ▪ 1/2 cup kidney beans
- ▪ 1 kg mixed fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, fenugreek, green onions, mint)
- ▪ 1 tsp turmeric
- ▪ Salt and black pepper, to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
- Step 1: Soak the kidney beans overnight and rinse them thoroughly to remove any impurities.
- Step 2: Chop the beef stew meat into cubes. Peel and finely chop the onion. If you prefer, you can grate the onion instead.
- Step 3: In a large pot, sauté the onion in vegetable oil until golden, then add the beef cubes. Cook until the meat is browned.
- Step 4: Add turmeric, salt, and black pepper to the meat and stir to combine.
- Step 5: Rinse the soaked kidney beans and add them to the pot with enough water to cover the ingredients. Bring to a simmer and cook until the meat is partially cooked.
- Step 6: While the stew is simmering, wash and dry the fresh herbs. Chop the herbs finely and sauté them in a separate pan for about 15 minutes until they darken and release their fragrance.
- Step 7: Add the sautéed herbs to the pot, along with the dried limes, pierced with a fork to release their flavor.
- Step 8: Simmer the stew on low heat for about 3-4 hours until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 9: Serve the Qorme Sabzi with steamed rice or warm bread.
Qorme Sabzi is a beloved Iranian dish that brings together a combination of tender meat, fresh herbs, and hearty beans. It’s a comforting, deeply savory stew, enjoyed across all of Iran for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. This traditional Persian recipe has been passed down through generations, making it a staple at gatherings and special occasions. Join me in exploring how to make this iconic dish, the ultimate comfort food that encapsulates the heart of Iranian home cooking.

The Heart of Iranian Cuisine
Qorme Sabzi is a dish that carries the essence of Iranian culture, a food rich in history and tradition. Its main ingredients include fresh herbs like parsley, coriander, fenugreek, and green onions, which are sautéed to bring out their full flavors. These herbs, combined with tender meat—usually beef or lamb—and kidney beans, are cooked slowly to create a stew that has become a symbol of Iranian hospitality.
Despite its seemingly complex cooking process, Qorme Sabzi is a dish that rewards patience. It is cooked over low heat for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. The final touch is a few dried limes, which infuse the stew with a tangy, citrusy flavor that perfectly balances the richness of the meat.
A Rich and Nutrient-Packed Stew

Not only does Qorme Sabzi taste delicious, but it is also packed with nutrients. The fresh herbs contribute a variety of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, while the meat adds a good source of protein. Together, these ingredients make for a hearty and wholesome meal.
Historically, Qorme Sabzi was a dish that could be made in large quantities for gatherings, but its evolution into a comfort food for all occasions makes it just as beloved in small family settings today.
Serve your Qorme Sabzi with steamed white rice or freshly baked bread for a truly authentic experience. This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for the next few days, allowing the flavors to deepen even further. For a special touch, consider pairing it with a refreshing side salad and a dollop of yogurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of beef for Qorme Sabzi?
How do I store leftover Qorme Sabzi?
What type of beans should I use for Qorme Sabzi?
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