Save A rich, tangy-sweet Persian stew featuring tender chicken thighs simmered with walnuts and pomegranate molasses, offering classic flavors on a budget.
When I first tested this budget-friendly version of fesenjan, my kitchen filled with the aroma of toasted walnuts and warm spices. Recreating classic Persian flavors with accessible ingredients was deeply satisfying, and even my family was surprised the stew tasted restaurant-quality.
Ingredients
- Poultry: 800 g (about 6) bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- Nuts: 150 g (1 1/2 cups) walnut halves or pieces
- Produce: 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Liquids: 750 ml (3 cups) water or unsalted chicken broth
- Condiments: 100 ml (about 1/2 cup) pomegranate molasses
- Pantry: 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Spices: 1/2 tsp ground turmeric; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
- Sweetener: 1–2 tbsp sugar (to taste, optional)
Instructions
- Toast Walnuts:
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until fragrant. Let cool, then finely grind in a food processor until resembling coarse sand.
- Prepare Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until soft and golden, about 8 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Spice It Up:
- Stir in turmeric and cinnamon; cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
- Brown the Chicken:
- Add the chicken thighs, season with salt and pepper, and brown lightly on both sides, about 4–5 minutes.
- Add Walnuts and Liquid:
- Sprinkle in the ground walnuts and pour in water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Stir in pomegranate molasses and sugar (if using). Continue simmering uncovered for another 30–40 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is very tender. Adjust salt and sugar to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve hot over steamed basmati rice.
Save This stew always reminds me of family gatherings, especially New Year celebrations. My relatives love spooning the thick sauce over fluffy rice and reminiscing about holidays in Tehran.
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven, skillet, food processor or blender, wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (walnuts). May contain allergens if using commercially prepared pomegranate molasses or broth, check labels.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~540, Total Fat: 34 g, Carbohydrates: 21 g, Protein: 37 g (per serving)
Save Make this fesenjan on a cold evening for a comforting, vibrant main dish that tastes even better reheated the next day.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of chicken works best for this dish?
Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs provide tender meat and rich flavor that holds up well during the long simmer.
- → How do walnuts affect the stew's texture?
Toasted and ground walnuts thicken the sauce while imparting a deep, nutty richness essential to the dish's character.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness or tartness?
Yes, balance the pomegranate molasses and sugar amounts to fine-tune the sweet-tart flavor to your preference.
- → Is there a substitute for pomegranate molasses?
A combination of pomegranate juice reduced slowly or a mix of balsamic vinegar with a touch of sugar can mimic the flavor.
- → What side pairs well with this stew?
Steamed basmati rice is traditional and complements the rich, fragrant sauce perfectly.
- → Can this dish be made dairy-free?
Yes, the stew is naturally dairy-free, making it suitable for those with dairy restrictions.