Pomegranate Stew with Chicken (Khoresh Fesenjan)

Ingredients and Weight:

• Chicken: 1 whole chicken (about 2-3 pounds)
• Pomegranate juice: 1 cup
• Ground walnuts: 1/2 cup
• Ground almonds: 1/4 cup
• Brown sugar: 1/3 cup
• Dried apricots: 1/2 cup, chopped
• Fresh or dried rose petals (optional): 1 tablespoon
• Cinnamon, cardamom pods, salt: To taste
• Cooking oil: 2 tablespoons

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 2 hours (includes marinating and cooking time)
• Cooking Time: 1 hour

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Marinate chicken with pomegranate juice, ground walnuts, and a sprinkle of cinnamon and cardamom pods for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a deep pot, heat the cooking oil and add the chicken with its marinade.
3. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes on medium-low heat.
4. Add the ground almonds, brown sugar, and chopped dried apricots. Mix well.
5. Simmer for another 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt and adjust the flavor with more cinnamon or cardamom if desired.
7. Garnish with fresh or dried rose petals (if using).
8. Serve hot with rice or naan.

Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 servings total)

• Calories: Approx. 500-600 calories per serving (depending on the chicken weight and additions)
• Fat: 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: 35-45g
• Protein: 30-40g

Dish Characteristics:

• Unique flavor combination of pomegranate and nuts with sweet and savory notes.
• The dish is rich in flavor and texture, with the chicken being tender and the sauce thick and sweet.
• The dish is visually appealing with its deep red color from the pomegranate juice and the added rose petals.

User Comments:

• "The flavor was unique and delicious! The pomegranate gave it a fresh and fruity taste."
• "I loved the combination of sweet and savory flavors in this dish."
• "The chicken was so tender and the sauce was perfect."
• "A great dish for a special occasion! Highly recommended."
• "This dish was a hit with my family! The flavors were perfect."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use fresh pomegranate juice for best flavor. If not available, use bottled pomegranate juice.
• Adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference for sweetness. Start with smaller amounts and add more if needed.