Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that's also quick to prepare? Look no further! This Persian ground beef recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It's bursting with vibrant flavors, thanks to a delightful blend of aromatic spices and herbs. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to experienced chefs. Get ready to experience the best of Persian cuisine right in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Cooked rice, for serving (serves as a healthy base for your meal)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation of the dish's flavor.
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Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. This ensures a leaner, healthier meal.
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Bloom the Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, saffron (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aromas. This enhances the depth of flavor in your dish.
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Simmer the Stew: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained) to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped parsley and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over cooked rice. A sprinkle of extra parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and lamb.
- If you don't have fresh herbs, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried parsley and 1 tablespoon of dried cilantro. However, fresh herbs are always recommended for a brighter, more vibrant taste.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Don't overcook the ground beef, as it can become dry and tough.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots along with the onions.
- Make it a hearty stew: Add 1 cup of chickpeas or kidney beans for a heartier, more protein-packed meal.
- Serve with a dollop of yogurt: A dollop of plain yogurt on top adds a cooling element and creamy texture that complements the savory flavors.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This quick dinner idea is a perfect example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make Persian ground beef recipe! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a great addition to your repertoire of best recipes. Remember, cooking should be enjoyable, so feel free to experiment and adapt this recipe to your preferences.