Tender lamb shanks slow-simmered until falling off the bone form the heart of this hearty phesoliyeh. By pairing the meat with fresh berlotti beans in a tomato-based broth infused with seven spice, cinnamon, and bay leaf, the resulting stew balances a deep, earthy intensity with the brightness of fresh coriander and garlic.
The slow-cooking method allows the beans to soak up the juices from the lamb, creating a thick, velvety consistency that coats every spoonful. A final kick of chilli is entirely up to your preference, though it adds a necessary depth that cuts through the savory notes of the ghee-browned aromatics.
This is a classic weekend project that settles beautifully as the flavors meld together. For the most traditional presentation, serve it over a bed of buttery egg noodle rice, making sure to add a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the table to lift the heavier elements of the dish.
Read Full StoryWhen you are craving a hearty, slow-cooked meal, nothing quite compares to the tender result of high-quality braised lamb shanks. While Phesoliyeh is a classic comfort dish on its own, it shines brightest when paired with rich, bone-in cuts. If you enjoy the interplay of tender meat and savory stewing liquids, you might also want to explore the layered textures of Fattet Mozzat, which offers a unique Middle Eastern take on this timeless protein.
Key Ingredients
- Lamb shanks: The primary protein simmered until tender to create a rich, savory meat base.
- Borlotti beans: Hearty fresh beans that provide texture and absorb the complex tomato-based sauce.
- Coriander: Provides a fresh, herbaceous aroma that balances the depth of the slow-cooked lamb.
- Garlic: A full head of crushed garlic forms the aromatic foundation for the thick sauce.
- Seven spice: This Middle Eastern spice blend delivers the signature warm and earthy flavor profile.
- Passata and crushed tomatoes: Used together to create a thickened, tomato-forward broth without the acidity of paste.
Hearty Lamb Inspirations
- For a bright and aromatic take, try these slow cooked lemony shanks that cut through the richness of the meat with a sharp, herbal finish.
- If you prefer a quicker stovetop method, these savory chops with gravy provide a satisfying, pan-seared alternative to braising.
- When you want a hands-off approach for dinner, roasting lamb chump chops in the oven ensures a deep, caramelized crust without the need for constant monitoring.
Curated by Aprilia Wanson in Austin, TX — I research and organize easy recipes so you can cook with what you have. More about how I create content →