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Uzbek Plov 

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Uzbek Plov, a beloved dish from Central Asia, is a rich and flavorful one-pot meal made with tender lamb (or beef), aromatic rice, vegetables, and a variety of spices. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion or gathering.

Ingredients

  1. For the Plov:
  2. 1 lb lamb (or beef), cut into bite-sized pieces (can also use chicken)
  3. 2 cups long-grain rice (basmati or Uzbek plov rice)
  4. 2 large onions, finely chopped
  5. 3 medium carrots, julienned or grated
  6. 4 cloves garlic, crushed
  7. 1/4 cup vegetable oil or sunflower oil
  8. 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  9. 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
  10. 1/2 teaspoon turmeric or saffron threads (optional)
  11. 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  12. Salt and black pepper, to taste
  13. 4 cups water or broth (beef or chicken)
  14. Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
  15. For additional flavor:
  16. 1–2 dried apricots, chopped (optional)
  17. 1 tablespoon raisins (optional)
  18. 1–2 bay leaves (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then set aside to drain.

  1. Cook the meat: Heat oil in a large pot. Add onions and sauté until golden. Add lamb (or beef), season with salt and pepper, and brown the meat on all sides.
  2. Add vegetables and spices: Stir in carrots, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric (or saffron), and garlic. Cook for 5-6 minutes. Add dried apricots and raisins, if using.
  3. Add water and rice: Pour in water (or broth) and bring to a boil. Add drained rice over the meat mixture, pressing gently. Add garlic and bay leaves. Don’t stir the rice. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes on low heat.
  4. Finish and serve: Let the plov rest for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Garnish with cilantro or parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, replace meat with a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, and zucchini, and add chickpeas for extra protein.
  • For added heat, you can add fresh chopped chili peppers or chili flakes to the spice mix.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/uzbek-plov/