Traditional Azerbaijani PILAF Recipe - Azerbaijan Village cooking

lamb

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: beef

Chicken is leaner and more affordable than lamb.

dried fruits

🥗Healthier: fresh fruits

💰Cheaper: raisins

Fresh fruits provide similar flavor and texture with fewer calories.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil offers healthier fats, while margarine is often less expensive.

spices

🥗Healthier: herbs

💰Cheaper: basic seasoning

Using herbs can enhance flavor without the need for costly spice blends.

Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear.

Soak rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.

Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat until melted.

Sauté onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 7-10 minutes.

Stir in carrots and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Add chickpeas and dried fruits, mixing well.

Season with salt, pepper, and spices to taste.

Add soaked rice on top of the lamb mixture without stirring.

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 rice is tender and water is absorbed.

Fluff rice with a fork and mix gently with the lamb mixture.

Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: