Dive into the heart of Kazakhstan with Kozhe, a beloved soup blending tender wheat grains and succulent meat. This traditional dish is a hallmark of special occasions, embodying the rich culinary heritage of Kazakhstan.

Here's a recipe for Kazakhstan Kozhe:

Ingredients:

 - 1 cup wheat grains

 - 500g lamb or beef, cubed

 - 1 large onion, chopped

 - 3-4 garlic cloves, minced

 - 2 carrots, grated

 - 2 potatoes, diced

 - 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

 - Salt and pepper, to taste

 - 1 bay leaf

 - Water

 - Sour cream, for serving

Instructions:

1- Rinse the wheat grains under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.

2- In a large pot, combine the cubed meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent.

3- Add the grated carrots, diced potatoes, and rinsed wheat grains to the pot. Pour in enough water to cover all the ingredients.

4- Add the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat and wheat grains are tender.

5- Stir in the chopped parsley and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

6- Serve the Kozhe hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy this traditional Kazakh soup during your special occasions!

Nutritional Values:

Here's the approximate nutritional information for the main ingredients in the Kazakhstan Kozhe recipe per serving:

1 Cup Wheat Grains:

  - Calories: 340 kcal

  - Fat: 1.5 g

  - Carbohydrates: 72 g

  - Protein: 12 g

Benefits:

   - Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

   - Rich in fiber, aiding digestion and supporting heart health.

   - Contains essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, iron, and magnesium.

500g Lamb or Beef, Cubed:

  - Calories: 1100 kcal

  - Fat: 90 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 80 g

Benefits:

   - High in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.

   - Rich in iron, zinc, and B vitamins (especially B12), which are important for overall health.

1 Large Onion, Chopped:

  - Calories: 45 kcal

  - Fat: 0.1 g

  - Carbohydrates: 11 g

  - Protein: 1 g

Benefits:

   - Adds flavor and contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation.

   - Provides vitamins C and B6, and minerals like manganese and potassium.

3-4 Garlic Cloves, Minced:

  - Calories: 12 kcal

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 3 g

  - Protein: 0.6 g

Benefits:

   - Contains compounds with potential anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

   - Adds flavor and aroma to the dish.

2 Carrots, Grated:

  - Calories: 50 kcal

  - Fat: 0.2 g

  - Carbohydrates: 12 g

  - Protein: 1 g

Benefits:

   - High in vitamin A and antioxidants, supporting eye health and immune function.

   - Contains dietary fiber, aiding in digestion.

2 Potatoes, Diced:

  - Calories: 330 kcal

  - Fat: 0.4 g

  - Carbohydrates: 76 g

  - Protein: 7 g

Benefits:

   - Provides a source of carbohydrates for energy.

   - Contains vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber.

1/2 Cup Chopped Fresh Parsley:

  - Calories: 11 kcal

  - Fat: 0.2 g

  - Carbohydrates: 2 g

  - Protein: 1 g

Benefits:

   - Adds freshness and flavor.

   - Provides vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like iron and calcium.

Salt and Pepper, to Taste:

Salt:

   - Calories: 0 kcal

   - Fat: 0 g

   - Carbohydrates: 0 g

   - Protein: 0 g

Benefits: Enhances flavor and is essential for maintaining fluid balance and supporting nerve and muscle function.

Pepper:

   - Calories: 6 kcal per teaspoon

   - Fat: 0.3 g

   - Carbohydrates: 1.5 g

   - Protein: 0.2 g

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains piperine, which may enhance nutrient absorption.

1 Bay Leaf:

  - Calories: 0 kcal

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

Benefits:

   - Adds a subtle flavor to the dish.

   - Contains antioxidants and may aid in digestion.

Water:

  - Calories: 0 kcal

  - Fat: 0 g

  - Carbohydrates: 0 g

  - Protein: 0 g

Benefits:Hydrates the ingredients and helps cook the dish.

Sour Cream, for Serving:

  - Calories: 30 kcal per tablespoon

  - Fat: 2.5 g

  - Carbohydrates: 1 g

  - Protein: 1 g

Benefits:

   - Adds creaminess and tangy flavor to the dish.

   - Provides calcium and some beneficial bacteria (if using live-cultured sour cream).

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as specific ingredients used and cooking methods.