Kazakh Rice Pilaf (Foods of Central Asia)

lamb

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: pork

Chicken is leaner and more affordable than lamb.

dried fruits

🥗Healthier: fresh fruits

💰Cheaper: no fruits

Fresh fruits provide a lighter alternative.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: sunflower oil

Olive oil is healthier, while sunflower oil is budget-friendly.

chickpeas

🥗Healthier: lentils

💰Cheaper: beans

Lentils are nutritious and cheaper than chickpeas.

Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

Soak rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.

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 on all sides, about 10 minutes.

Add sliced carrots and cook for another 5 minutes.

Mix in garlic, cumin, and black pepper, cooking for 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add soaked rice to the pot, stirring gently to combine.

Pour in water until it covers the rice by about an inch.

Add bay leaves and salt, then bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender.

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

Fluff rice with a fork and mix in chopped parsley and cilantro before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: