April 29, 2009

Tas Kabab


Tas Kabab


تاس کباب Tas kabab is a hearty one-pot beef or lamb stew made with onions, tomatoes, carrots, quince, and potatoes. Traditionally enjoyed in autumn and winter when quince is in season. I love Tas Kabab so much that  I make it year-round, sometimes swapping quince for tart Granny Smith apples when quince isn't available; they make a great substitute.

This flavorful stew can also be made without quince or apples and will still be delicious. Some people even add eggplant for an extra layer of taste and texture. Tas kabab is an all-in-one meal that doesn't require rice. It's best served with warm bread, yogurt, and torshi. 



Tas Kabab

Ingredients
Serves 4-6

-1 pound beef or lamb, cubed
-3 medium onions, peeled and sliced into rings
-4 medium carrots, sliced 
-4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
-2 large quince, cored and sliced
-2 large tomatoes, sliced
-2 tablespoons tomato sauce 
-A handful of pitted dried plums (aloo Bokhara) 
-2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
-1-2 teaspoons dried lime powder (limoo amani )
-1/2 teaspoon turmeric
-Pinch of cinnamon
-Salt and pepper to taste

Method
  1. In a large heavy pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil, and spread a layer of sliced onions on the bottom of the pot. And sprinkle with turmeric.
  2. Layer the meat over the onions. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and turmeric. Then layer the sliced tomatoes, carrots, and quinces in that order.
  3. Add the potatoes and dried plums on top. 
  4. Season with salt, pepper, lemon powder, and a pinch of cinnamon. Add the potatoes and plums on top. 
  5. Add the tomato sauce and pour in 1-2 cups of water. Cover and cook over low heat for 1 hour or until the meat and vegetables are tender. 
  6. Transfer to a serving platter with warm bread, fresh herbs, yogurt, and torshi.

Enjoy!

5 comments:

  1. Tas kabob is probably my fav dish.....I have many, but this one's ranked #1. Can't wait to try your recipe. Cheers!

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  2. Hi Azita,
    What do you think about subbing butternut squash for quince?
    I have no quince but have some wonderful cubed squash just waiting to be cooked. Wondering if it might just work??
    What are your thoughts...have a large family and hate risking dinner : -))

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    Replies
    1. Valerie, you can substitute the quince with Granny Smith apples and add the butternut squash too.

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    2. That's exactly what I did and it turned out great! Kids are taking the leftovers in their thermoses for school today ;-))
      Also I wanted to share another blog with you! Since I know you are a lover of good food, and have a fine appreciation for food and tradition, here is another blog I love, along with yours... for me it is just magical, and the photos are lovely! So for your knowledge in cooking I wanted to give something back to you!
      Here is the address (and I apologize if you already know it)
      http://mimithorisson.com/

      p.s. I am also a Francophile, as you could guess! take care!!

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