Second Spin, Country 11: Azerbaijan [International Food]

lamb

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: beef

Chicken is leaner and more affordable than lamb.

long-grain rice

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: short-grain rice

Quinoa is a healthier grain alternative, while short-grain rice is often less expensive.

dried fruits

🥗Healthier: fresh fruits

💰Cheaper: raisins

Fresh fruits provide a lighter option, while raisins are a cost-effective substitute.

saffron

🥗Healthier: turmeric

💰Cheaper: yellow food coloring

Turmeric offers a similar color with health benefits, while food coloring is a budget-friendly option.

Rinse the rice until the water runs clear.

Soak the rice while prepping the other ingredients.

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan and sauté the peeled chestnuts for 3 minutes.

Add in the dried apricots, barberries, pitted dates and sauté for another 3 minutes.

Add the golden raisins and sauté for 1 minute more, then remove from heat.

Put 10 cups of water into a large pot and add in 2 tablespoons of salt, bringing it to a boil.

Add the rice and stir with a wooden spoon, boiling for 7 to 10 minutes until partially cooked and floating to the top.

Remove from heat and drain the rice, rinsing out the pot.

Return the pot to the stove and melt 1 tablespoon of butter in it.

Layer the chicken cubes along the bottom of the pot and season with salt and pepper.

Layer the sliced onions on top and simmer on medium heat uncovered for 3 minutes without stirring.

Layer in half of the rice, then the dried fruits and chestnuts, and then the rest of the rice in a pyramid shape.

Pour on 1 tablespoon of melted butter, cover with a clean dish towel or three paper towels, and place the lid on the pot, folding back the towel edges.

Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.

Open the pot and pour in the saffron water, mix, replace the lid, and simmer for another 30 minutes.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: