Discover the authentic way to prepare Shuzhuk, a beloved dish of smoked or dried mutton. This traditional recipe guides you through the process of creating flavorful, tender Shuzhuk that can be enjoyed as a savory snack or meal. Perfect for those looking to explore classic meat preservation techniques and enjoy a unique culinary experience.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg mutton (preferably from the shoulder or leg), cut into strips

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon ground coriander

- 1 tablespoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon ground paprika

- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 1/4 cup vinegar

- 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade:

  - In a large bowl, mix together the garlic, coriander, cumin, black pepper, paprika, salt, and thyme.

Marinate the Mutton:

  - Rub the spice mixture all over the mutton strips, ensuring they are well-coated.

  - In a separate bowl, combine the vinegar, water, and olive oil. Pour this mixture over the seasoned meat.

  - Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Dry or Smoke the Mutton:

  - To Dry: Preheat your oven to 60°C (140°F). Place the mutton strips on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air circulation. Dry in the oven for 4-6 hours, or until the meat is completely dried and firm.

  - To Smoke: Preheat your smoker to 90°C (195°F). Arrange the mutton strips on the smoker racks. Smoke the meat for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches a desired smokiness and is firm to the touch.

Cool and Store

  - Let the Shuzhuk cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.

  - Store in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Serve:

  - Shuzhuk can be sliced and enjoyed as a snack, added to soups, or used as a flavorful addition to various dishes.

Enjoy your homemade Shuzhuk, and savor the traditional taste of smoked or dried mutton!

Nutritional Values

Mutton (1 kg, shoulder or leg):

   - Calories: 294

   - Protein: 25g

   - Fat: 21g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Iron: 2.4mg

   - Zinc: 4.2mg

Benefits: Mutton is a rich source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients such as iron and zinc. It supports muscle growth and repair, enhances immune function, and contributes to overall energy levels.

Garlic (4 cloves, minced):

   - Calories: 149

   - Protein: 6.4g

   - Fat: 0.5g

   - Carbohydrates: 33g

   - Vitamin C: 31mg

   - Manganese: 1.7mg

Benefits: Garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It supports heart health, boosts the immune system, and may help regulate blood pressure.

Ground Coriander (1 tablespoon):

   - Calories: 298

   - Protein: 12g

   - Fat: 17g

   - Carbohydrates: 55g

   - Iron: 16.3mg

Benefits: Coriander has antioxidant properties and may help with digestion, manage blood sugar levels, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ground Cumin (1 tablespoon):

   - Calories: 375

   - Protein: 18g

   - Fat: 20g

   - Carbohydrates: 44g

   - Iron: 66.36mg

Benefits: Cumin aids in digestion, helps with iron absorption, and has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Ground Black Pepper (1 teaspoon):

   - Calories: 255

   - Protein: 10g

   - Fat: 3.3g

   - Carbohydrates: 64g

   - Vitamin K: 163mcg

Benefits: Black pepper aids digestion, enhances nutrient absorption, and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Paprika (1 teaspoon):

   - Calories: 282

   - Protein: 14g

   - Fat: 12g

   - Carbohydrates: 54g

   - Vitamin A: 2628 IU

Benefits: Paprika is high in antioxidants and vitamins, particularly vitamin A, which supports vision and immune health.

Salt (1 teaspoon):

   - Sodium: 38,000mg

Benefits: Salt is essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function, but it should be consumed in moderation to avoid hypertension and other health issues.

Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon):

   - Calories: 101

   - Protein: 5g

   - Fat: 1.7g

   - Carbohydrates: 24g

   - Vitamin C: 160mg

Benefits: Thyme has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, supports respiratory health, and may aid digestion.

Olive Oil (1 tablespoon):

   - Calories: 884

   - Protein: 0g

   - Fat: 100g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Vitamin E: 14mg

Benefits: Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.

1/4 Cup Vinegar

   - Calories: 22

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Sodium: 5mg

Benefits: Vinegar can aid in digestion, may help regulate blood sugar levels, and has antimicrobial properties.

Water (1/4 cup):

   - Calories: 0

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 0g

   - Protein: 0g

Benefits: Water is essential for hydration, digestion, and overall bodily functions.

These ingredients combine to offer a flavorful and nutritious dish with a balance of protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.