Country: Iran Region / Locale: Gilan province Servings: 4

Ingredients

• beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes – 1 lb / 450 g
• onion, finely chopped – 1 large / 200 g
• garlic cloves, minced – 3 cloves
• tomatoes, peeled and chopped – 2 large / 400 g
• tomato paste – 2 tbsp / 30 g
• water – 2 cups / 480 ml
• olive oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
• dried lime – 2 whole
• turmeric powder – 1 tsp / 2 g
• cinnamon stick – 1 stick / 3 g
• salt – 1 tsp / 5 g
• black pepper – 1/2 tsp / 1 g
• cucumber, sliced – 1 small / 150 g

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
2. Add garlic and turmeric powder, sauté for another minute.
3. Increase the heat to high, add beef cubes, and brown on all sides.
4. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, and cinnamon stick. Stir well.
5. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours.
6. After 1 hour, add dried limes and salt. Simmer for another 30 minutes.
7. Adjust seasoning with black pepper and serve hot with slices of cucumber on top.

Substitutions

• beef chuck -> lamb chunks
• dried lime -> lemon juice (1 tbsp)
• olive oil -> vegetable oil

Enhancements in the Next Evolution

• Marinate the beef with spices for a deeper flavor.
• Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.
• Incorporate more vegetables like carrots or potatoes for added richness.