Cooking Traditional Uzbek Plov | Authentic Central Asian Rice Dish

lamb

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: beef

Chicken is leaner and more affordable than lamb.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: sunflower oil

Olive oil offers health benefits, while sunflower oil is cost-effective.

dried fruits

🥗Healthier: fresh fruits

💰Cheaper: no fruits

Fresh fruits can add flavor without the added sugar of dried.

chickpeas

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: beans

Lentils and beans provide protein at a lower cost.

Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

Soak rice in water for at least 30 minutes.

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

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

Stir in diced lamb and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.

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

Mix in minced garlic, cumin, black pepper, and salt.

Add soaked rice on top of the meat and vegetables without stirring.

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

Place bay leaves and dried fruits on top of the rice.

Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce heat to low.

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

Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh herbs.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary