Traditional Iranian Abgoosht: An Authentic and Unforgettable Flavor
Traditional abgoosht is one of the oldest and most authentic Iranian dishes, holding a special place on Persian tables for generations. Also known as “Dizi,” this dish is a flavorful combination of meat, legumes, and aromatic spices, slowly cooked for hours to achieve a rich taste. Below, we will guide you through the process of making classic Iranian abgoosht, along with essential tips and tricks.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- Lamb (with bone) – 300g
- Fat (dumba) – 50g (optional, for enhanced flavor)
- Chickpeas – ½ cup
- White beans – ½ cup
- Potatoes – 2 medium
- Tomato – 1 large (optional)
- Tomato paste – 1 tbsp
- Onion – 1 large
- Dried lime (Limoo Amani) – Half a lime, chopped
- Turmeric – 1 tsp
- Salt and pepper – To taste
- Water – 5 cups
Steps to Make Classic Iranian Abgoosht
1. Preparing the Legumes
Soak the chickpeas and white beans overnight, changing the water several times to remove gas and improve digestion.
2. Cooking the Meat
Chop the onion and add it to a pot along with the lamb and fat. Drain the soaked legumes and add them to the pot along with turmeric and pepper.
Pour water over the ingredients and let it simmer over low heat. Once it starts boiling, remove the foam that forms on the surface.
Cut the tomato in half and add it to the pot along with tomato paste.
Once the meat is partially cooked, add salt and chopped dried lime. Be sure to remove the seeds from the lime to avoid bitterness.
3. Adding Potatoes
Once the meat is fully cooked and the broth has thickened, wash a few small potatoes and place them in the pot with their skins on. Let them cook until tender. Meanwhile, mash the cooked fat. After the potatoes are done, add the mashed fat to enhance the flavor.
Serve this delicious dish with pickles, fresh herbs, and onions. The best drink to pair with abgoosht is traditional Persian yogurt drink, “Doogh.”
💡 Tips:
✅ For the best flavor, use bone-in cuts like lamb shoulder or neck.
✅ Let the dish cook slowly over low heat for several hours to develop its full flavor.
Enjoy! 😍🍲
Perfect 👌