Iraqi Qeema Stew of Chickpeas and Diced Meat

Indulge in the hearty and aromatic flavors of Iraqi Qeema, a traditional Middle Eastern stew brimming with tender diced lamb or beef, creamy chickpeas, and a symphony of warm spices like turmeric, cinnamon, and cumin. This comforting dish is slowly simmered with tomato paste, garlic, and the tangy essence of dried lime, creating a richly spiced broth that perfectly complements its wholesome ingredients. Ideal for cozy family dinners, this one-pot recipe is simple to prepare yet delivers complex, unforgettable flavors. Serve it alongside fluffy rice or crusty bread, and garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finishing touch. Perfect for lovers of global cuisine, this authentic stew is as filling as it is flavorful.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:105 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams diced lamb or beef
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons clarified butter or vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 400 grams canned or cooked chickpeas
• 4 cups water or beef stock
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried lime powder or whole dried limes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the clarified butter or vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and golden in color.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic and stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Increase the heat to high and add the diced lamb or beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides.

Step 5

Stir in the tomato paste, turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, and dried lime powder (or whole dried limes). Cook for 2-3 minutes to toast the spices and coat the meat.

Step 6

Pour in the water or beef stock, ensuring the meat is fully covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 60 minutes.

Step 7

After an hour, stir in the chickpeas, salt, and black pepper. Continue to simmer uncovered for another 20-30 minutes until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 8

Adjust seasoning to taste, and remove whole dried limes (if used).

Step 9

Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, alongside rice or bread.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2134.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2418.0

Total Fat 153.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 67.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 507.5mg	0%
Sodium 3349.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 142.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 38.2g	0%
Total Sugars 32.0g
Protein 131.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 389.2mg	0%
Iron 25.3mg	0%
Potassium 3373.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.8%

Protein: 21.2%

Carbs: 23.0%