Serves 6

INGREDIENTS

Vegetable oil
1 bunch scallions, chopped fine
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 medium leek, sliced thin, tops included
1 pound, beef, cubed into ½ inch cubes
Salt/pepper
½ teaspoon saffron threads
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon turmeric
2 medium tomatoes chopped, seeds included
3 dried Persian lemons, cracked in half
2 cups water
½ cup yellow split peas or pre soaked chick peas
2 cups of fresh spinach, chopped
½ cup fresh dill, chopped
½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
½ cup fresh chives, chopped
¼ fresh fenugreek

PREPARATION

Cook onions, scallinos and leeks in oil heavy bottom soup pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and semi translucent, 15 to 20 minutes.

Sprinkle salt and pepper on the meat. Increase heat to high, and then add meat, saffrom, cinnamon and turmeric to onions and cook, stirring frequently, until meat is no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Mix in tomatoes and toss in lemons and stir well, then simmer for a few minutes. Add water and simmer covered for about 35 minutes. Add water and beans and all fresh herbs and simmer again covered for about 45-60 minutes or until meat is very tender.