Ingredients

1 lb stew meat ( lamb or beef )
2 small pumpkin
1/2 cup dried prune
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon turmeric
1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 medium onion , chopped
salt and pepper
1/4 cup water ( optional )
1 pinch saffron , disolved in the water ( optional )
Persian Lamb or Beef Pumpkin Stew is a traditional Persian dish that also has culinary roots in other Middle Eastern countries. In Persia, the dish is known as Khoresh Kadu Halvai, and it is often served during the fall and winter months. The stew is typically eaten with rice or bread and is perfect for a cold night. The lamb or beef used in the recipe creates a rich base, while the pumpkin and prunes add sweetness and complexity to the flavor. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, warm and inviting, perfect for cozy dinner gatherings with family and friends.

Instructions

1.Cut the stew meat into 2-inch cubes.
2.Peel the pumpkin with a vegetable peeler, and slice it into wedges. Remove the seeds.
3.In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some cooking oil over medium heat.
4.Add onion, sauté until translucent.
5.Add the stew meat to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6.Stir in tomato paste, turmeric and cinnamon, and cook for 2-3 minutes.
7.Add pumpkin and prunes, and season with salt and pepper.
8.Pour water into the pot, bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 1-1.5 hours.
9.If using saffron, add the dissolved saffron to the pot about 15 minutes before the end of cooking time.
10.Serve hot with rice or bread.

PROS

This hearty stew is full of flavor and nutrients.

The combination of lamb or beef and pumpkin creates a rich, complex taste.

Prunes add a subtle sweetness.

The dish can be made in advance and reheated.

CONS

The cooking process takes time and attention, which may not suit a hectic schedule.

Due to the use of lamb or beef, this dish may be too heavy for some people.

The pumpkin and prunes may cause gas in some individuals.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This stew contains a variety of nutrients, including protein, fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and iron.
Lamb or beef is a rich source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
Pumpkin is low in calories and rich in vitamin A, which is important for vision health and immune function.
The combination of pumpkin and prunes, both high in fiber, may aid digestion.

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