Iranian-style Lentil Stew with Meatballs

Ingredients

In this Iranian adaptation of Hasa adas, we incorporate Iranian flavors and ingredients to create a unique twist on the traditional Yemeni dish. The addition of saffron, a staple in Iranian cuisine, adds a distinct flavor and vibrant color to the stew. We also use a blend of Iranian spices to season the meatballs, giving them a deliciously aromatic taste. These adaptations infuse the dish with the essence of Iranian culinary traditions while still maintaining the heartiness and comfort of the original Yemeni recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Hasa adas, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground meat (beef or lamb) 500g (1.1 lb) ground meat (beef or lamb)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 10g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the meat mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a walnut.
3. 3.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
4. 4.
   In the same pot, add the rinsed lentils, beef or vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, saffron threads, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. 5.
   Return the meatballs to the pot and simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
7. 7.
   Serve the Iranian-style Lentil Stew with Meatballs hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — To enhance the flavor and aroma of saffron, soak the threads in a tablespoon of warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the stew.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, replace the meatballs with plant-based meat substitutes or use a combination of cooked lentils and mushrooms.
• Serve the stew with Iranian flatbread or rice for a complete meal.
• Adjust the spiciness by adding a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper if desired.
• Make a larger batch of the stew and freeze the leftovers for quick and convenient meals.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the stew.

Serving advice

Serve the Iranian-style Lentil Stew with Meatballs in individual bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley. Accompany it with warm Iranian bread or rice for a satisfying and complete meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the dish, arrange a few meatballs on top of the stew and sprinkle some saffron threads for an elegant touch. Serve it in colorful Iranian ceramic bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the stew.