Chicken Lemon Stew
A fragrant chicken stew infused with lemon, saffron, and rose water, offering a delicate balance of citrus and floral flavors perfect for comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 4-quart pan, combine 2 1/2 cups water, crushed cardamom seeds, rose water, lemon juice, saffron, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to medium.
- Dissolve the flour in 1/2 cup water, then add to the liquid slowly with continuous mixing.
- When the mixture thickens, add chicken pieces.
- Cover and let cook until chicken pieces are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For an aromatic twist, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or turmeric along with the cardamom. If you don't have rose water, a splash of vanilla extract can work in a pinch. Ensure the flour is well dissolved to avoid lumps, and stir constantly as you add it to the stew. This dish pairs beautifully with rice or crusty bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Lemon Stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor. It pairs well with steamed basmati rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. For a complete meal, consider a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, ensuring even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Lemon Stew contains roughly 272 calories, with 9g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value), iron (47% of the Daily Value), and potassium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1912mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat for this stew?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with other meats like turkey or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different proteins may require different lengths of time to cook through.
What should I serve with this stew?
This stew pairs excellently with rice or crusty bread. You might also consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to complement the flavors and add texture to your meal.
How can I make this stew spicier?
To add some heat, consider including crushed red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers when you add the chicken. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference, and remember to taste as you go!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).