Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/16 checked
6
servings
14 unit

firm tofu

drained and cut into slabs

5 tbsp

grapeseed oil

1 tsp

sea salt

1 pinch

black pepper

freshly ground

1 tsp

ground turmeric

1 unit

yellow onion

thinly sliced

4 clove

garlic

minced

2 cup

cooked kidney beans

rinsed and drained

2 cup

vegetable stock

boiling

0.5 unit

spinach

coarsely chopped

1 cup

fresh flat-leaf parsley

coarsely chopped

1 cup

fresh cilantro

coarsely chopped

1 cup

scallions

thinly sliced

2 unit

dried limes

soaked in hot water

3 tbsp

freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 tbsp

extra-virgin olive oil

for finishing

Step 1
~9 min

Drain the tofu and cut it into 1-inch-thick slabs.

Step 2
~9 min

Freeze until solid, about 6 hours.

Step 3
~9 min

Defrost in the refrigerator overnight.

Step 4
~9 min

Squeeze the tofu slices to remove excess water.

Step 5
~9 min

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Step 6
~9 min

Line a baking sheet with a nonstick baking mat.

Step 7
~9 min

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of the grapeseed oil, 1 teaspoon salt, a few grinds of pepper, and the turmeric.

Step 8
~9 min

Add the tofu and toss to coat it in the seasoning.

Step 9
~9 min

Spread the tofu on the baking sheet and bake for 50 minutes, flipping the slabs once halfway through.

Step 10
~9 min

The tofu should be golden and springy. Let cool and dice.

Step 11
~9 min

Heat a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining 3 tablespoons grapeseed oil, followed by the onion.

Step 12
~9 min

Brown the onion for 10 minutes, until it starts to darken, then cook slowly over low heat for about 30 minutes, until it is dark brown and about half its original volume.

Step 13
~9 min

Add the garlic, beans, tofu, and stock and bring to a boil; then turn down the heat and simmer, partially covered, for 30 minutes.

Step 14
~9 min

Add the spinach in large handfuls, adding more as each batch wilts, then stir in the herbs and scallions.

Step 15
~9 min

Pierce the limes and add them to the stew along with their soaking water.

Step 16
~9 min

Simmer for 20 minutes. The herbs should be tender but still bright green.

Step 17
~9 min

Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.

Step 18
~9 min

Turn off the heat and let the stew rest for 15 minutes.

Step 19
~9 min

Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and serve.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Adjust the amount of herbs to your preference.

Soaking the dried limes is crucial for softening them and releasing their flavor.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

20 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Can be made a day ahead and reheated.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Strong (herbal and savory)
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with rice or flatbread.

Serve with a dollop of yogurt.

Perfect Pairings

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Iran

Cultural Significance

A staple Persian dish, often served at special occasions and family gatherings.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Occasion Tags

Family Dinner
Weeknight Meal
Special Occasion
Comfort Food

Popularity Score

65/100

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