Oshi Palov - the traditional national food of Tajikistan cooked in the United States

lamb

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: beef

Chicken is lower in fat and more affordable than lamb.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: sunflower oil

Olive oil offers healthier fats while sunflower oil is cost-effective.

raisins

🥗Healthier: dried cranberries

💰Cheaper: sultanas

Dried cranberries provide a tart flavor, while sultanas are often less expensive.

chickpeas

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Lentils are nutritious and quick to cook, while canned beans save time.

Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear.

Soak rice in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in diced lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.

Add sliced carrots and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Mix in minced garlic, cumin, black pepper, and salt, cooking for 2 minutes.

Add soaked rice to the pot and gently stir to combine 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 the pot.

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

Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 10 minutes.

Fluff rice with a fork and mix in raisins and chickpeas before serving.

Garnish with chopped parsley and coriander, if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: