Celebrate The Fresh Flavors Of Spring With Bukharian Cuisine!

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These traditional Bukharian recipes bring warmth and festivity to your table while welcoming the renewal of spring with fresh, vibrant ingredients.

 

Oshi Bukhari (Bukharian Rice Pilaf)

A Traditional Bukharian Dish for Festive Family Affairs

 Ingredients:

  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 1 ½ lbs beef or lamb, cut into small cubes
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 2 large carrots, cut into matchsticks
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 4 cups water or beef broth
  • ½ cup chickpeas (optional, pre-soaked if using dried)
  • ½ cup raisins (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Rice: Rinse rice under cold water, soak for 30 minutes, then drain.

Cook the Meat and Vegetables: Sauté onions until golden, add meat, brown, then stir in garlic, carrots, and spices.

Simmer: Add water or broth, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes to an hour.

Cook the Rice: Spread rice over meat, add raisins (if using), cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes.

Final Step: Fluff gently, mix with meat and vegetables, and serve warm.

 

Kuku Sabzi (Bukharian Herb Frittata)

A Light & Flavorful Dish for Spring

Ingredients:

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 ½ cups fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
  • ½ cup scallions or chives, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ¼ cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
  • ¼ cup barberries or dried cranberries (optional)
  • ½ tsp baking powder (for fluffiness)

 Instructions:

Prepare the Herbs: Wash and finely chop parsley, cilantro, dill, and scallions.

Whisk the Eggs: In a bowl, whisk eggs with salt, pepper, turmeric, coriander, and baking powder.

Combine Ingredients: Fold in the chopped herbs, walnuts, and barberries.

Cook the Kuku Sabzi: Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan, pour in the mixture, and cook covered for 8-10 minutes until set. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes or bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.

Serve: Slice and serve with yogurt, lemon wedges, and matbucha.

Why Kuku Sabzi for Spring? ⯑ Fresh Herbs = Renewal: A perfect dish to welcome spring and Pesach, symbolizing growth and new beginnings.

Light & Nourishing: A protein-packed yet refreshing dish.

Zesty & Bright: Served with lemon and yogurt, it’s a perfect springtime meal.