The Food of Tajikistan with Sasha Martin

lamb

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: pork

Chicken is leaner and more affordable.

dried fruits

🥗Healthier: fresh fruits

💰Cheaper: raisins

Fresh fruits provide a healthier option.

yogurt

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: sour cream

Greek yogurt is healthier but can be more expensive.

flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: all-purpose flour

Whole wheat flour is healthier but may be pricier.

Soak rice in water for 30 minutes.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in diced lamb and cook until browned, about 10 minutes.

Add grated carrots and cook for another 5 minutes.

Season with cumin, black pepper, and salt to taste.

Add soaked rice to the pot and mix well with the meat and vegetables.

Pour in enough water to cover the rice by about an inch.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.

Cook for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.

In a separate pot, steam or boil chickpeas until tender.

Prepare dough for samsa by mixing flour, water, and egg; roll out and fill with meat mixture.

Bake samsa in a preheated oven until golden brown, about 20 minutes.

Serve plov with a side of yogurt and garnish with herbs.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens