Vegan Ghormeh Sabzi Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide

If you’ve ever craved a hearty, deeply flavorful stew that’s both comforting and packed with vibrant herbs, vegan ghormeh sabzi is a dish you absolutely must try. Originating from Persian cuisine, ghormeh sabzi is traditionally made with tender lamb or beef, but this vegan version captures all the essence and complexity of the original without any animal products.

It’s a beautiful medley of fresh herbs, beans, and tangy dried limes simmered to perfection, creating a rich and aromatic stew that pairs wonderfully with rice.

This recipe is perfect for those who want to explore Middle Eastern flavors while keeping their meals plant-based. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add a unique and nutritious dish to your repertoire, this vegan ghormeh sabzi will impress your palate and satisfy your hunger.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional favorite in an ethical and health-conscious way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegan ghormeh sabzi stands out for its incredible depth of flavor, thanks to the combination of fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, and fenugreek. This stew balances the earthiness of kidney beans with the bright, zesty notes of dried limes, creating a complex taste that warms you from the inside out.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also highly nutritious and packed with fiber and plant-based protein. The recipe is fairly straightforward and can be made in one pot, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Additionally, the stew’s flavors actually improve if reheated, so leftovers are a real treat.

If you love exploring vegan recipes with rich cultural roots, you’ll also enjoy checking out our Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals for more authentic and exciting dishes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried kidney beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cups fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 cups fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 cup fresh chives or green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp dried fenugreek leaves (or 2 tbsp fresh if available)
• 3 dried limes (loomi), pierced with a fork
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil (olive or sunflower)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1-2 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth
• Cooked basmati rice, for serving

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife and chopping board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander (if using canned beans)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Optional: blender or food processor for chopping herbs finely

Instructions

1. Prepare the beans: If using dried kidney beans, soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse before cooking. Place them in a pot with fresh water, bring to a boil, then simmer for about 45 minutes until tender. If using canned beans, simply rinse and drain.
2. Sauté the onion: Heat the vegetable oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden and translucent, about 7-10 minutes. This step builds the stew’s base flavor, so don’t rush it!
3. Add turmeric and herbs: Stir in the turmeric powder, then add the chopped parsley, cilantro, chives (or green onions), and dried fenugreek leaves. Cook the herbs for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently. They should reduce in volume and darken slightly, releasing their fragrance.
4. Add beans and liquids: Add the cooked kidney beans to the pot along with 4 cups of water or vegetable broth. Drop in the pierced dried limes. Stir everything together, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
5. Simmer the stew: Cover the pot and let the ghormeh sabzi simmer gently for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add water if necessary.
6. Season and adjust: About 15 minutes before finishing, add salt, black pepper, and lemon juice if using. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
7. Serve: Remove the dried limes before serving. Ladle the stew over fluffy basmati rice and enjoy the rich, herbaceous flavors!

Tips & Variations

For a quicker version, consider using canned kidney beans and pre-chopped frozen herbs, but fresh herbs will always yield the best flavor.

You can substitute kidney beans with black beans or chickpeas if you prefer a different texture or flavor. Some cooks like to add diced potatoes or mushrooms to bulk up the stew, which works wonderfully.

If you can find fresh fenugreek leaves, use them instead of dried for a brighter, more authentic taste. Otherwise, dried fenugreek works well and is easier to store.

For an ultra-rich version, try adding a splash of pomegranate molasses near the end of cooking—it adds a lovely sweet-tart complexity.

Want to explore more slow-cooked vegan meals? Check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for inspiration.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegan ghormeh sabzi is traditionally served over steamed basmati rice, which perfectly absorbs the rich, herb-infused broth. You can garnish with fresh herbs or a wedge of lemon for extra brightness.

For a more complete meal, pair it with a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. A side of warm flatbreads or pita is perfect for dipping into the stew as well.

If you enjoy creamy sauces, consider serving with our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes alongside for a fusion twist.

Conclusion

Vegan ghormeh sabzi is a true celebration of Persian culinary heritage adapted for plant-based diets. Its vibrant herbs, hearty beans, and tangy dried limes combine to create a comforting and nourishing stew that is perfect year-round.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or meal prepping for yourself, this recipe delivers satisfying flavors without compromising on health or ethics.

Exploring dishes like this one is a wonderful way to diversify your vegan cooking and discover new flavor profiles from around the world. Don’t forget to experiment with the herbs and spices to make it your own, and enjoy the delicious journey of Middle Eastern cuisine.

For more exciting vegan recipes, be sure to visit our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves for sweet and savory treats to complement your meals.

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