Today's Recommended Dish / Northern Plum Stew; A Memorable Taste with Grandma’s Recipe

Sunday, February 02, 2025  Read time2 min

Saed News: Looking for authentic and traditional flavors? Northern Plum Stew is one of those dishes whose aroma and taste will remind you of Northern wedding feasts and warm, friendly gatherings. It has a sweet and sour taste and is loved by many. (Stay with us for two delicious recipes!)

Today's Recommended Dish / Northern Plum Stew; A Memorable Taste with Grandma’s Recipe

According to Saed News' culinary section, Northern Plum Stew is a traditional Iranian dish prepared in various regions, especially in northern cities like Mazandaran, Gilan, and Golestan. This stew, commonly served at wedding ceremonies, has a balanced sweet and sour taste and is made with lamb, dried plums, barberries, tomato paste, and citrus juice (lime or bitter orange).

Recipe #1 (as shown in the video)

Ingredients:

  • Dried plums – 1 cup

  • Barberries – 1 cup

  • Onion – 1 (chopped)

  • Tomato paste – 2 tbsp

  • Sugar – 1 cup (optional)

  • Lemon or bitter orange juice – 1 tbsp

  • Water – 2 liters

Instructions:

  • Soak the dried plums for a few hours to soften them.

  • Sauté the chopped onion in oil until soft.

  • Add tomato paste and sauté until its raw taste disappears.

  • Add meat and cook until its color changes.

  • Stir in dried plums, barberries, sugar (if desired), and lemon or bitter orange juice.

  • Pour in water and let the stew simmer for 2-3 hours until the meat is tender.

Add salt and black pepper at the end, adjust seasoning, and serve.

🔹 Pro Tips:

  • You can use lamb or beef for this stew.

  • For a tangier taste, increase the amount of lemon/bitter orange juice.

  • If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the sugar.

  • Leave the pot lid slightly open at the end for a thicker, richer stew.


Recipe #2

Ingredients:

  • Dried plums – 250g

  • Onion – 1 (thinly sliced)

  • Barberries – 1 small bowl

  • Water – 2 cups

  • Sugar – 1 tbsp (optional)

  • Tomato paste – 1 tbsp

  • Spices – Turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon (to taste)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté onion & plums: Fry onion in oil until golden, then add plums and sauté briefly.

  2. Add tomato paste and stir until fragrant.

  3. Add water & spices: Pour in water and season with turmeric, black pepper, and cinnamon.

  4. Simmer: Let the stew cook on low heat until thickened.

  5. Add barberries 10 minutes before finishing, along with sugar (if preferred).

  6. Serve with rice and fried chicken or lamb.

🔹 Pro Tips:

  • For an authentic Northern flavor, use wild plums.

  • You can substitute pomegranate seeds instead of barberries for a unique twist.


Why is Northern Plum Stew so Popular?

Unique Taste – The sweet & sour combo makes it unforgettable.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients & quick preparation.
Perfect for Gatherings – A festive dish for special occasions.

Final Thoughts

Northern Plum Stew is a must-try traditional dish that delivers rich flavors and nostalgia in every bite. If you're looking for a unique Persian recipe, this one will surely impress your guests! 🍽️✨