Pomegranate Walnut Fesenjan (Print)

Tender chicken thighs cooked in a rich pomegranate and walnut sauce with warm spices and fresh herbs.

# Components:

→ Chicken

01 - 1.75 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
02 - 1 tsp salt
03 - 1/2 tsp black pepper

→ Walnuts & Aromatics

04 - 2 cups walnuts
05 - 1 large onion, finely chopped
06 - 2 tbsp vegetable oil

→ Sauce & Seasonings

07 - 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
08 - 2/3 cup pomegranate molasses
09 - 2 tbsp brown sugar (adjust to taste)
10 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
11 - 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
12 - 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
13 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Garnish (optional)

14 - Pomegranate seeds
15 - Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

# Directions:

01 - Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and golden. Allow to cool slightly, then grind finely using a food processor.
02 - Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 6 to 8 minutes until soft and golden.
03 - Add ground walnuts to the sautéed onions. Cook, stirring frequently for 5 minutes until the mixture darkens and releases oils.
04 - Incorporate chicken thighs and season with salt, black pepper, cinnamon, turmeric, and nutmeg. Sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until lightly browned.
05 - Pour in chicken broth, scraping browned bits from the pot. Bring to a simmer.
06 - Stir in pomegranate molasses and brown sugar. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer gently for 55 to 65 minutes, stirring occasionally until chicken is tender and sauce thickens.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, sugar, or pomegranate molasses to balance flavors.
08 - Serve hot, garnished with pomegranate seeds and chopped herbs if desired. Traditionally accompanied by steamed basmati rice.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Authentic Persian flavor on a budget
  • Perfect for cozy family dinners
02 -
  • This stew tastes better after resting overnight
  • Suitable for dairy-free and gluten-free diets if broth is checked
03 -
  • Grind walnuts thoroughly for a creamy sauce
  • Balance sweet and tart by adjusting molasses and sugar to taste
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