Celebrate Pesach with Bukharian Flavor

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These kosher-for-Pesach recipes are filled with springtime inspiration and traditional Bukharian ingredients. Perfect for Seder nights, Yom Tov meals, or Chol HaMoed feasts

 Bukharian Pesach Kofta
(Spiced Ground Meat Patties Without Chametz)

A Savory & Protein-Rich Main for Yom Tov

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp matzah meal or potato starch (for non-gebrokts)
  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

Mix all ingredients in a bowl until fully combined.

Form into flattened patties.

Fry in oil over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side.

Serve hot with lemon wedges or fresh salad.

 

Bukharian Herb & Potato Torshi
(Tangy Pesach Vegetable Salad)

A Bright and Zesty Side Dish for the Seder or Any Meal

Ingredients:

  • 4 potatoes, boiled and cubed
  • 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.

Whisk dressing separately and pour over.

Toss gently and chill before serving.

 

Bukharian Matzo Meat Soup
(Gushtbo With Matzah Crumble)

A Hearty Soup Honoring Tradition Without Chametz

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs beef bones or stew meat
  • 1 onion, halved
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 6 cups water
  • 2 sheets matzah or kneidlach (non-gebrokts)
  • Chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions:

Simmer meat, vegetables, and seasonings for 2–3 hours.

Strain or keep rustic.

Add crushed matzah or kneidlach before serving.

Garnish with cilantro.

 

Bukharian Sweet Potato & Apple Farcha
 (Yom Tov Casserole)

A Symbolic, Naturally Sweet Dish for the Season of Freedom

Ingredients:

  • 3 sweet potatoes, sliced
  • 2 apples, sliced
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp cloves (optional)
  • 2 tbsp honey or silan
  • Zest and juice of 1 orange
  • 1 tbsp oil or schmaltz
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Mix all ingredients and place in a baking dish.

Cover and bake for 45 minutes.

Uncover and bake 10 more minutes until golden.