Bozbash soup is a beloved dish originating from Azerbaijan, renowned for its rich flavors and comforting warmth. This traditional recipe combines tender chunks of meat, creamy chickpeas, and hearty potatoes, simmered together with aromatic spices to create a satisfying meal. With roots dating back centuries, Bozbash soup reflects the culinary heritage of the region, cherished for its nourishing qualities and cultural significance. Discover the history and flavors of this timeless dish as we delve into its origins and share a classic recipe to enjoy with family and friends.

Ingredients:

- 500g meat (lamb or beef), cubed

- 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight

- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tomatoes, diced

- 1 tablespoon tomato paste

- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Method:

1. In a large pot, combine the meat, soaked chickpeas, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper.

2. Add enough water to cover the ingredients by an inch.

3. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the chickpeas are cooked through.

4. Once cooked, adjust the seasoning if needed and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy this comforting Bozbash soup with crusty bread for a satisfying meal that celebrates the rich flavors of Azerbaijani cuisine.

Nutrition Value:

1. Meat (lamb or beef), cubed:

  - Calories: Approximately 120-150 per 100g (depending on the cut)

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 20-25g per 100g

  - Fat: Approximately 5-10g per 100g

  - Sodium: Varies depending on preparation

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 60-90mg per 100g

  - Nutritional benefits: Excellent source of high-quality protein, essential amino acids, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. 

2. Dried Chickpeas, soaked overnight (1 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 270

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 45g

  - Protein: Approximately 15g

  - Fat: Approximately 4g

  - Sodium: 2mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Rich in dietary fiber, protein, folate, iron, phosphorus, and manganese. Also contains beneficial antioxidants and may promote digestive health.

3. Potatoes, peeled and diced (3 potatoes):

  - Calories: Approximately 270-300 (depending on size)

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 60-70g

  - Protein: Approximately 6-9g

  - Fat: 0-1g

  - Sodium: Varies depending on preparation

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Good source of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin B6. Provides energy and supports immune function and heart health.

4. Onion, finely chopped (1 onion):

  - Calories: Approximately 40-50

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-12g

  - Protein: Approximately 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 2-3mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Contains antioxidants, including quercetin, and sulfur compounds. Low in calories and a good source of vitamin C, dietary fiber, and various micronutrients.

5. Garlic, minced (2 cloves):

  - Calories: Approximately 10-15

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-3g

  - Protein: 0.5-1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Contains allicin, a compound with potential health benefits, including immune system support, heart health, and anti-inflammatory properties.

6. Tomatoes, diced (2 tomatoes):

  - Calories: Approximately 20-30

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 4-6g

  - Protein: Approximately 1-2g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 5-10mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene. May promote heart health and reduce the risk of certain cancers.

7. Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 15-20

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 3-4g

  - Protein: 0.5-1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 10-20mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Concentrated source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants. May support immune function and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

8. Ground Turmeric (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 5-10

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1-2g

  - Protein: 0.1-0.2g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Contains curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. May offer various health benefits, including improved joint health and reduced risk of chronic diseases.

9. Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 5-10

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g

  - Protein: 0.2-0.5g

  - Fat: 0.2-0.5g

  - Sodium: 1-5mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion, improve blood sugar control, and provide iron and magnesium.

10. Salt and Pepper to taste:

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Amount varies based on usage

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Sodium is essential for fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction, but excessive intake should be moderated.

11. Fresh Herbs for garnish (optional):

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Depending on the herbs used (such as parsley or cilantro), they may provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the dish, enhancing its flavor and nutritional profile.

These nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as cooking methods, portion sizes, and ingredient variations.