Golden Tanoor

Iraqi Tishreeb: The Comfort Food You Need To Try

In the vibrant world of Middle Eastern cuisine, few dishes embody the essence of tradition and heartwarming flavour quite like Tishreeb. This hearty stew, rich with spices and layered in taste, is a staple in many Middle Eastern households. The dish is not just sustenance; it is a reflection of cultural heritage, often enjoyed with loved ones around a communal table. Today, I’ll be sharing a version of Tishreeb that weaves together the aromatic spices beloved in many kitchens, prepared conveniently with the modern ease of a pressure cooker.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6 people)

  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 lbs (approx 1kg) of beef, diced
  • 1 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • Water (enough to cover beef and a little more)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
  • 2 green chilli peppers, chopped
  • 1 tsp rose powder
  • 2 dried lime
  • 1-2 cans cooked chickpeas (400g each)
  • 3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

Method

  • Set pressure cooker to ‘saute’, and adjust temperature to ‘medium’
  • Add chopped onions, Saute until soft and translucent, which will take 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally so it doesnt stick
  • Add beef, stirring occasionally, allowing to brown on all sides
  • Sprinkle in curry powder, turmeric and black pepper. Stir well so that beef is coated nicely
  • Pour in enough water to cover beef and a little more. Add tomato paste if you’d like to intensify tomato flavour. Add green chilli peppers, rose powder, dried lime and chickpeas
  • Mix well
  • Seal the cooker, switch function to ‘pressure’ and adjust time to ’45 minutes’
  • Allow Cooker to work its magic – meat will tenderise and spices will incorporate
  • Release pressure and add the potatoes – set timer to 10 minutes under ‘pressure function’ and allow to cook through
  • Release pressure and open lid once this is done – give the stew a stir, and adjust salt and pepper to your liking!

This dish is typically served over warmed middle eastern bread, but can equally be enjoyed with a bowl of warm rice or even on its own as a hearty stew or soup. ENJOY 🙂