Iran’s Khoresh Bamieh Named One of the World’s 100 Least-Loved Dishes by TasteAtlas
In a surprising turn of events, Khoresh Bamieh, a beloved traditional Iranian stew, has been listed as the 50th among the “100 Worst Rated Foods in the World” by the popular culinary ranking platform, TasteAtlas. This ranking has generated significant discussion within the Iranian culinary community, highlighting the diverse perceptions of global cuisine.
Khoresh Bamieh, a staple of Persian cuisine, is a hearty stew made with a variety of ingredients, including:
- Beef or lamb
- Okra
- Tomato paste
- Onions
- Garlic
- Turmeric
- Cinnamon
This dish is typically served with rice, making it a comforting meal in many Iranian households.
TasteAtlas, known for aggregating food ratings from users worldwide, has placed Khoresh Bamieh among other controversial dishes. The platform’s ranking is based on collective feedback from users, with over 602,500 ratings recorded as of January 16, 2025. To maintain credibility, TasteAtlas employs stringent mechanisms to filter out biased, bot-generated, or nationalistic ratings, ensuring that the results reflect legitimate opinions from knowledgeable users.
Preparation of Khoresh Bamieh involves several key steps:
- Browning the meat: Start by browning beef or lamb in olive oil to enhance the flavor.
- Adding the base ingredients: Incorporate tomato paste, garlic, onions, and spices such as turmeric and cinnamon.
- Simmering: Allow the mixture to simmer until the meat is tender.
- Finishing touches: Add okra towards the end of cooking to retain its texture and flavor.
Once cooked, this aromatic stew is served warm alongside rice, making it a popular choice for family gatherings and celebrations.
The TasteAtlas ranking also highlighted the top three dishes, which were all Scandinavian:
- First place: Blodplattar from Sweden
- Second place: Blodpalt from Finland
- Third place: Calskrove from Sweden
This ranking has ignited a broader conversation about how traditional dishes are received globally. Many users expressed surprise at certain inclusions, indicating a disconnect between regional culinary appreciation and international perceptions.
Despite its ranking, Khoresh Bamieh remains a cherished part of Iranian cuisine, celebrated for its unique combination of flavors and its centuries-old recipe. The dish holds a special place in the hearts of many Iranians, who continue to enjoy it as a symbol of their rich culinary heritage.
As the culinary world continues to evolve, the reception of traditional dishes like Khoresh Bamieh serves as a reminder of the diverse tastes and preferences that exist globally. While it may not have resonated with the majority of TasteAtlas’ international audience, Khoresh Bamieh endures as a staple of comfort and tradition in Iranian culture.
In conclusion, the recent ranking of Khoresh Bamieh may have stirred controversy, but it also opens up a dialogue on the importance of cultural appreciation in cuisine. As more people explore the flavors of the world, dishes like Khoresh Bamieh deserve recognition and respect for their rich history and cultural significance.
