Gluten-Free Traditional Uzbek Plov

Experience the comforting flavors of Central Asia with this **Gluten-Free Traditional Uzbek Plov**, a hearty and aromatic rice pilaf perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Made with tender pieces of lamb or beef, vibrant carrots, and a fragrant blend of cumin, coriander, and turmeric, this gluten-free twist on the classic Uzbek dish ensures everyone can enjoy its rich culinary heritage. The secret to its depth of flavor lies in layering gluten-free basmati rice atop a savory medley of spiced meat and vegetables, all simmered to perfection with a whole head of garlic and bay leaves. Perfectly fluffy rice and melt-in-your-mouth meat make this one-pot wonder both satisfying and soul-warming. Serve this dish warm and pair it with a fresh salad or yogurt for the ultimate gluten-free comfort meal!

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:110 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups Gluten-free basmati rice
• 1 lb Boneless lamb or beef
• 3 medium Carrots
• 2 medium Onions
• 1 head Garlic
• 2 tsp Cumin seeds
• 1 tsp Ground coriander
• 1.5 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp Black pepper
• 0.5 tsp Turmeric
• 2 pieces Bay leaves
• 1 cup Vegetable oil or ghee
• 4 cups Water

Directions

Step 1

Start by rinsing the basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in a bowl of water for 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Step 2

Chop the boneless lamb or beef into bite-sized cubes. Slice the onions into thin half-moon slices and julienne the carrots into thin strips.

Step 3

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the cubed meat, sprinkle lightly with salt, and sear until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 4

Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook until they are golden brown, stirring occasionally, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 5

Stir in the carrots and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they soften slightly.

Step 6

Mix in the cumin seeds, ground coriander, black pepper, turmeric, and remaining salt. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables in the spices.

Step 7

Place the whole, unpeeled head of garlic in the center of the pot (do not separate the cloves). Add the bay leaves around it.

Step 8

Pour in 4 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to tenderize.

Step 9

After 45 minutes, carefully remove the garlic head and set it aside. Spread the soaked and drained rice evenly over the meat and vegetable mixture without stirring.

Step 10

Gently pour enough water over the rice to cover it by about 1 inch (approximately 2 cups of additional water, if needed). Increase the heat to bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the water has been absorbed.

Step 11

Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Using a wooden spoon, gently fluff the rice, mixing it slightly with the meat and vegetables underneath.

Step 12

Serve the plov hot, garnished with the reserved, softened garlic head for added flavor. Enjoy this hearty, gluten-free Uzbek classic!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2574.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4236.6

Total Fat 336.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 75.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g
Cholesterol 440.0mg	0%
Sodium 4065.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 168.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 15.4g	0%
Total Sugars 23.2g
Protein 141.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 502.2mg	0%
Iron 18.8mg	0%
Potassium 3074.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 71.0%

Protein: 13.2%

Carbs: 15.8%