Origin of Fesenjān
Fesenjān (also called fesenjoon) is an Iranian stew traditionally made with meat, pomegranate molasses or paste, and walnuts. It’s believed that during the Sassanian empire (224 -651 AD), it was served to celebrate the new year. Our version is not traditional, but is our plant-based take made with similar ingredients and flavors, such as walnuts and pomegranate molasses. You can find a more traditional recipe from Rozina’s Persian Kitchen.
How to Make Vegan Fesenjān
This recipe is simple to make, requiring just 9 ingredients. It starts with toasting walnuts and sautéing onions to create a rich and hearty base for the stew. The walnuts are blended into a fine meal and are almost undetectable in the final dish, but add a nuttiness that I just love. The flavor comes from plenty of warming spices like cinnamon and turmeric as well as vegetable broth and a somewhat uncommon ingredient—pomegranate molasses. You can find pomegranate molasses at most specialty stores, or—good news—you can make your own (which is what I do). Simply cook down pomegranate juice until thickened and reduced and you’ve got a great homemade substitute. Though this dish is traditionally cooked with meat, I first began cooking it at home with chickpeas (a recipe you’ll find in our cookbook!). But I must say, lentils and Fesenjān belong together. They become tender in the broth and take on the flavors so incredibly well. I’m hooked! We hope you LOVE this recipe! It’s: HeartySavory-sweetComfortingWarmingSatisfyingIncredibly flavorfulVersatile& So delicious This would make the perfect meal for holidays, hosting, weeknight dinners, and beyond. We love preparing it in the winter months when pomegranates are abundant. Serve over rice and top with pomegranate arils and parsley for the ultimate festive dish.
More Hearty Stews
If you’re into hearty stews, also be sure to check out our 1-Pot Red Lentil Chili, Moroccan-Spiced Eggplant & Tomato Stew, Lentil Mushroom Stew Over Mashed Potatoes, and Easy Chana Masala. Mmm, comfort food. If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo #minimalistbaker on Instagram. Cheers, friends!
