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Anar bij Gilani Stew with

Anar Bij (Persian Pomegranate and Walnut Stew)

Anar Bij is a traditional Persian stew from Northern Iran made with minced meat, ground walnuts, and pomegranate paste. This rich, tangy, and sweet dish is a true taste of Gilan’s cuisine.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Persian (Iranian)
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 400 g minced meat lamb or beef
  • 150 g ground walnuts
  • 3-4 tbsp pomegranate paste preferably fresh
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp aromatic herbs mint, savory, parsley
  • Salt pepper, and turmeric to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil or butter
  • Water as needed

Method
 

  1. Prepare the meatballs: Mix minced meat with salt, pepper, and turmeric. Form small walnut-sized balls and fry until golden brown. Set aside.
  2. Make the sauce: In a pan, sauté onion in oil until golden, then add garlic. Add ground walnuts and toast gently to release aroma.
  3. Add pomegranate paste: Stir in pomegranate paste and a little water to form a thick sauce.
  4. Combine: Place fried meatballs into the sauce. Simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes until flavors blend.
  5. Finish: Add aromatic herbs, stir gently, and cook for another minute. Serve hot.