Authentic Persian Stew: Baghali Ghatogh Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen fava beans
  • 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 medium onions, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup fresh dill, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they become translucent.
  3. Add the finely chopped garlic to the pan and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in the turmeric, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Add the fava beans to the pan and mix well. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
  6. Stir in the chopped dill and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.
  7. Crack the eggs one by one into the pan on top of the bean mixture. Cover the pan and let it cook for another 5 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your liking.
  8. Check the seasoning and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot with a side of bread or rice.

Tools for making

  • Frying Pan - A large frying pan to cook the dish.
  • Knife - A knife for chopping the onions, garlic, and dill.
  • Cutting Board - A cutting board to chop the vegetables.
  • Spatula - A spatula for stirring the ingredients in the pan.
  • Measuring Spoons - Measuring spoons for accurately measuring the spices.

Recipe variations

  • Substitute fava beans with lima beans or butter beans.
  • Add cooked chicken or lamb to make it a meaty version.
  • Include other vegetables such as spinach, kale, or peas.
  • Sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Replace vegetable oil with olive oil for a different flavor.
  • Add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top when serving.
  • Garnish with chopped tomatoes or sliced green onions.
  • Serve with a side of plain rice or quinoa instead of bread.

Recipe overview

Baghali Ghatogh is a popular Persian dish that's brimming with flavors and textures. This recipe uses fresh or frozen fava beans in combination with aromatic herbs and spices, all topped off with perfectly cooked eggs. The resulting dish is a comforting, flavorful, and highly satisfying meal that is typically served with bread or rice. With this recipe, you'll sauté onions and garlic until they're beautifully caramelized, then add your spices and fava beans. The fresh dill adds a unique and refreshing flavor, making the dish stand out. The final touch of adding eggs and letting them cook right in the pan with the beans creates a hearty and protein-packed meal. This recipe is a wonderful introduction to Persian cuisine, it is relatively easy to make and uses simple ingredients that are full of flavor. So, whether you're new to Persian food or a seasoned fan, this Baghali Ghatogh recipe is a delicious and satisfying choice for any meal. Enjoy!

Common questions

  1. Can I use canned fava beans instead of fresh or frozen?
    Yes, you can use canned fava beans for this recipe. Make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the dish.
  2. Can I substitute dill with another herb?
    While dill is traditionally used in Baghali Ghatogh, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley if you prefer.
  3. Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
    If you prefer less spice, you can reduce or omit the black pepper. Alternatively, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some extra heat.
  4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
    This recipe is already vegetarian as it does not include any meat products. It's a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
  5. Can I make Baghali Ghatogh ahead of time?
    While it's best to enjoy Baghali Ghatogh fresh, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stovetop. Keep in mind that the texture of the eggs may change upon reheating.
  6. Can I freeze Baghali Ghatogh?
    It is not recommended to freeze Baghali Ghatogh as the texture of the eggs and beans may be affected when thawed. It is best enjoyed fresh.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large frying pan - A large frying pan is needed to cook the fava beans and eggs together.
  • Chopping board - A chopping board is necessary for chopping the onions, garlic, and dill.
  • Sharp knife - A sharp knife is essential for finely chopping the onions, garlic, and dill.
  • Spatula - A spatula will be useful for stirring the ingredients in the pan.
  • Cover or lid - A cover or lid is needed to cover the pan while simmering the beans and eggs.
  • Serving dish - A serving dish will be needed to present the Baghali Ghatogh when it is ready.

Origin stories

Baghali Ghatogh is a beloved traditional dish from the northern regions of Iran, particularly Gilan and Mazandaran, where fertile lands yield an abundance of fresh produce. This area, with its lush green landscapes and proximity to the Caspian Sea, is renowned for its rich culinary tradition, one that's deeply entwined with the ebbs and flows of the seasons. With the arrival of spring, the local markets brim with fresh fava beans, heralding the time to prepare Baghali Ghatogh. The dish, a delightful mingling of fava beans, dill, and eggs, is a testament to the region's love for fresh, vibrant flavors. It's typically savored with a side of Kateh, the northern style rice, and the hearty combination keeps the body nourished and warm amidst the cool Caspian breeze.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.