This dish combines the creamy richness of the slow-cooked ground walnut sauce with a sour-sweet undercurrent of pomegranate molasses. It’s savored on special occasions. I enjoy it so much at Persian restaurants or homemade with love by Persian friends, I had to learn how to make it myself. This recipe is adapted from http://www.whats4eats.com/poultry/fesenjan-recipe with additional suggestions from a Persian friend. I like to make it on Nowruz, the Persian New Year, which is celebrated on the first day of Spring on the Persian calendar.
Notes:
Pomegranate molasses, sometimes called pomegranate syrup, is available in most Middle Eastern markets. It has the color and consistency of molasses but is simply reduced pomegranate juice, without added sugar. If it is unavailable, you can substitute 2 cups of fresh pomegranate juice and use only 1/2 cup of stock. —Beautiful, Memorable Food
This recipe has been on my wish list for a while. Pomegranate is a flavor I love, but I've never cooked with the molasses before. The sweet/tart flavor is mellowed by the oils provided by the walnuts and chicken, bringing together a flavor I didn't expect, but absolutely love! The night I made this, we unexpectedly hosted my roommate's Iranian friend for dinner. She was delighted that someone would take the time to learn and prepare the food of her culture and she approved the recipe by cleaning her plate. —sylvie
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