World Flavors Cookbook

Plov Turkmen (Rice with Meat)

Name: Plov Turkmen (Rice with Meat)
Cook time: 90 min
Cuisine: Turkmenistan
Ingredients: 1 kg Rice (pre-soaked), 1 kg Lamb or Beef (large chunks), 1 kg Carrots (julienned), 3 Onions (sliced), 200 ml Oil, 1 tbsp Cumin seeds, 1 head Garlic (whole), Salt to taste, Water

The centerpiece of Turkmen cuisine, this pilaf is a slow-cooked harmony of mutton, rice, carrots, and onions, often served with yogurt or sour milk.

Cuisine: Turkmenistan

Ingredients

1 kg Rice (pre-soaked), 1 kg Lamb or Beef (large chunks), 1 kg Carrots (julienned), 3 Onions (sliced), 200 ml Oil, 1 tbsp Cumin seeds, 1 head Garlic (whole), Salt to taste, Water

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot (kazan) and sear the meat until browned. 2. Add onions and fry until golden. 3. Add carrots and cook until softened. 4. Pour in water to cover, add spices and whole garlic head, and simmer for 30 minutes. 5. Spread rice evenly over the top, add more water if needed (1 cm above rice level). 6. Cook on high heat until water evaporates, then poke holes in the rice, cover tightly, and steam on very low heat for 25-30 minutes. 7. Remove garlic, mix well, and serve.