Food

Easy Vegetarian Ghormeh Sabzi Recipe

Written by MasterClass

Last updated: Sep 17, 2023 • 1 min read

Ghormeh sabzi is a traditional Persian herb stew that generally includes lamb or beef, but one easy substitution makes this classic dish vegan-friendly. An added bonus? Since you don't have to stew beef or lamb, this meatless version comes together in a fraction of the time.

Learn From the Best

What Is Ghormeh Sabzi?

Ghormeh sabzi is a type of Persian stew, or khoresh, traditionally made with fresh herbs, beans, and lamb or beef. (Ghormeh means “braised” and sabzi means “herbs” in Farsi.) Substituting tofu, however, is a great way to enjoy this Iranian favorite without the meat. The recipe gets its distinctive flavor from limoo amani (dried Persian limes) and shanbalileh (dried or fresh fenugreek leaves), both of which are available at Middle Eastern grocery stores. Ghormeh sabzi is typically served with side dishes like tachin (saffron rice), tahdig (a crispy crust), shirazi (tomato and cucumber salad), and yogurt. (For a vegan ghormeh sabzi meal, try coconut yogurt.)

Vegetarian Ghormeh Sabzi Recipe

30 Ratings | Rate Now

makes

prep time

30 min

total time

1 hr

cook time

30 min

Ingredients

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, toss tofu and onion with salt, pepper, and turmeric to coat.

  2. 2

    In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat oil until shimmering. Add tofu and onion mixture. Sauté onion and tofu until light golden brown, about 8 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add leek and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes, then add fresh herbs and dried fenugreek. Sauté herbs until dark green and very fragrant, about 15 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add canned beans and dried limes, along with enough water to keep ingredients submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, until flavors come together, about 15 minutes. Season to taste with salt and lime juice and serve warm.

Become a better chef with the MasterClass Annual Membership. Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by culinary masters, including Yotam Ottolenghi, Gabriela Cámara, Chef Thomas Keller, Dominique Ansel, Gordon Ramsay, Alice Waters, and more.