Discover the authentic taste of Beshbarmak, Kazakhstan's national dish. Made with tender boiled lamb or beef, served over flat noodles, and topped with sautéed onions, this hearty recipe is a must-try for fans of Central Asian cuisine. Learn how to make this traditional dish step by step and bring a taste of Kazakhstan to your table. Perfect for family meals or special occasions.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) lamb or beef (boneless, cut into chunks)

- 2 large onions (sliced)

- 500g (1 lb) flat noodles (store-bought or homemade)

- 2-3 bay leaves

- Salt and pepper (to taste)

- Fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)

- Water (for boiling the meat)

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat:

  - Place the lamb or beef in a large pot and cover with water.

  - Add the bay leaves, and a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a boil.

  - Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the meat simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until tender.

  - Skim off any foam that forms on the surface during cooking.

Cook the Noodles:

  - While the meat is cooking, prepare the noodles.

  - If using store-bought noodles, cook them according to the package instructions. If making homemade noodles, roll out the dough and cut it into squares or strips.

  - Boil the noodles in salted water until they are al dente, then drain.

Prepare the Onion Topping:

  - In a pan, sauté the sliced onions with a little bit of the meat broth until they are soft and slightly caramelized. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Dish:

  - Once the meat is done, remove it from the broth and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding it into smaller pieces.

  - Place the cooked noodles on a large serving platter.

  - Arrange the meat on top of the noodles.

  - Pour some of the hot broth over the dish, then top with the sautéed onions.

Serve:

  - Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for extra flavor.

  - Serve the dish hot, with the remaining broth on the side for sipping or additional pouring.

Notes:

- You can adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Some variations of Beshbarmak also include garlic or other spices.

- Traditionally, Beshbarmak is served in large communal dishes, making it perfect for gatherings and family meals.

Enjoy your homemade Beshbarmak!

Nutritional Values

Lamb or Beef (1 kg):

 - Calories: 250-300 kcal

 - Protein: 20-25g

 - Fat: 20-25g

 - Iron: 2.5mg

 - Vitamin B12: 2.4µg

Benefits:

 - High Protein: Essential for muscle growth and repair.

 - Iron: Supports oxygen transport in the blood and helps prevent anemia.

 - Vitamin B12: Important for nerve function and red blood cell formation.

 - Zinc: Contributes to a healthy immune system.

Flat Noodles (500g):

 - Calories: 150-200 kcal

 - Protein: 5-7g

 - Carbohydrates: 30-40g

 - Fiber: 2-3g

Benefits:

 - Energy: Provides a quick source of energy due to high carbohydrate content.

 - Fiber: Aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy bowel movements.

Onions (2 large):

 - Calories: 40 kcal

 - Protein: 1g

 - Carbohydrates: 9g

 - Fiber: 1.7g

 - Vitamin C: 8mg

Benefits:

 - Antioxidants: Rich in antioxidants, including quercetin, which may help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

 - Immune Support: Vitamin C contributes to a healthy immune system.

 - Digestive Health: Fiber helps with digestion and gut health.

2-3 bay leaves:

 - Calories: 313 kcal

 - Protein: 7g

 - Carbohydrates: 74g

 - Fiber: 26g

Benefits:

 - Digestive Aid: May help relieve symptoms of indigestion and nausea.

 - Anti-inflammatory: Contains compounds that can help reduce inflammation.

 - Antioxidants: Rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.

Fresh Parsley or Dill (for garnish):

 - Calories: 36 kcal

 - Protein: 3g

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

 - Vitamin C: 133mg

 - Vitamin A: 4215 IU

Benefits:

 - Vitamins: High in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health.

 - Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress.

 - Digestive Health: Can aid in digestion and reduce bloating.

These ingredients combine to make Beshbarmak a hearty and nutritious dish, providing essential nutrients and health benefits.