Khoresh Gheymeh Recipe (Persian Split Pea Stew) – Rich & Comforting
Khoresh Gheymeh is a beloved Persian stew made with tender beef or lamb, yellow split peas, tomato, and dried lime. Known for its deep, savory flavor and slightly tangy finish, this comforting dish is a staple in Iranian cuisine and is traditionally served with fluffy basmati rice.
This authentic recipe will help you create a perfectly balanced Gheymeh that’s hearty, aromatic, and full of flavor.
📌 Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: Persian / Middle Eastern
- Course: Main Course
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
- Calories: ~430 kcal per serving
🛒 Ingredients
- 500 g beef or lamb, cut into small cubes
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- ¾ cup yellow split peas, rinsed
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 dried limes (pierced)
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 cups water or beef stock
- Thin fried potato sticks (for garnish, optional)
👩🍳 How to Make Khoresh Gheymeh
1️⃣ Sauté the Onion
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion and cook until golden and fragrant.
2️⃣ Brown the Meat
Add beef or lamb cubes and sauté until lightly browned.
Stir in turmeric and tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes.
3️⃣ Add Split Peas
Stir in the rinsed split peas and mix well with the meat.
4️⃣ Simmer
Pour in water or stock and add dried limes.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1–1½ hours until meat and peas are tender.
5️⃣ Season & Finish
Season with salt, pepper, and cinnamon (if using).
Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with steamed basmati rice
- Add crispy potato sticks on top for traditional garnish
- Pair with yogurt or fresh herbs
💡 Tips for Perfect Gheymeh
✔ Soak split peas for 30 minutes for faster cooking
✔ Pierce dried limes to release flavor
✔ Adjust thickness by simmering uncovered
✔ Make ahead — flavor improves the next day
🔄 Variations
- Chicken Gheymeh: Substitute chicken for a lighter version
- Vegetarian: Replace meat with mushrooms
- Spicier: Add chili flakes
❓ FAQs
What does Khoresh Gheymeh taste like?
It’s savory, slightly tangy, and hearty with a rich tomato base.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months.
What can replace dried limes?
Fresh lime juice can be used but will be less intense.
Similar Recipes:
1.Ghormeh Sabji
A classic Persian stew made with herbs, kidney beans, and tender beef or lamb, offering a deep savory flavor and tangy finish.
Why it’s similar:
✔ Traditional Persian stew
✔ Slow simmered
✔ Served with rice
2.Fesenjan
A rich Persian dish featuring chicken simmered in a walnut and pomegranate sauce with a unique sweet-and-sour taste.
Why it’s similar:
✔ Classic Persian comfort food
✔ Slow-cooked main dish
✔ Complex flavor profile
3.Khoresh Bademjan
A tomato-based stew with fried eggplant and tender meat, known for its rich and slightly tangy flavor.
Why it’s similar:
✔ “Khoresh” style stew
✔ Slow braised ingredients
✔ Hearty and comforting
4.Abgoosht
A traditional Persian stew with lamb, chickpeas, potatoes, and spices, often served with bread.
Why it’s similar:
✔ Slow-cooked comfort dish
✔ Hearty texture
✔ Deep savory flavor
5.Dizi
A rustic Persian stew similar to Abgoosht, traditionally cooked slowly in a stone pot with meat and legumes.
Why it’s similar:
✔ Traditional Iranian comfort food
✔ Slow cooking method
✔ Rich and hearty
📝 Final Thoughts
Khoresh Gheymeh is a comforting Persian classic that combines tender meat, creamy split peas, and a tangy tomato sauce into a deeply satisfying meal. Whether you’re exploring Persian cuisine or looking for a hearty stew, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

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