Discover how to make Kuurdak, a traditional Kyrgyz dish featuring tender, fried meat (lamb or beef) combined with onions and potatoes. This hearty recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and is a staple in Kyrgyz cuisine. Follow our step-by-step guide to prepare this comforting and delicious meal for your family and friends. Ideal for those looking to explore authentic Kyrgyz flavors!

Ingredients:

- 500g lamb or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces

- 2 large onions, chopped

- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Cook the Meat: Add the meat to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Add Onions and Garlic: Stir in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Season: Sprinkle the ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over the meat and onions. Stir well to combine.

Add Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pan. Stir to mix with the meat and onions.

Simmer: Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the meat is fully cooked.

Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this flavorful Kyrgyz dish!

Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste and enjoy a taste of Kyrgyzstan right at home!

Nutritional Values

Lamb or Beef::

 - Calories: 250-300 kcal

 - Protein: 25-30g

 - Fat: 20-25g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

 - High Protein: Essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall bodily functions.

 - Iron: Important for oxygen transport in the blood and prevention of anemia.

 - Vitamin B12: Supports nerve function and the production of red blood cells.

Onions:

 - Calories: 40 kcal

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Carbohydrates: 9g

 - Fiber: 1.7g

Benefits:

 - Antioxidants: Rich in quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

 - Vitamins: Good source of vitamin C, which supports immune function.

 - Digestive Health: Contains prebiotics that promote gut health.

Potatoes:

 - Calories: 77 kcal

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Carbohydrates: 17g

 - Fiber: 2.2g

Benefits:

 - Energy: High in carbohydrates, which provide a quick source of energy.

 - Vitamin C: Supports immune function and skin health.

 - Potassium: Helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

Vegetable Oil:

 - Calories: 120 kcal

 - Fat: 14g

 - Saturated Fat: 1g

 - Monounsaturated Fat: 9g

 - Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g

Benefits:

 - Healthy Fats: Provides essential fatty acids that support heart health.

 - Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant and supports skin health.

Garlic:

 - Calories: 149 kcal

 - Protein: 6g

 - Fat: 0.5g

 - Carbohydrates: 33g

 - Fiber: 2.1g

Benefits:

 - Allicin: Contains allicin, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

 - Immune Support: Boosts the immune system and may help reduce the risk of certain cancers.

 - Cardiovascular Health: Can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Ground Cumin:

 - Calories: 8 kcal

 - Protein: 0.4g

 - Fat: 0.5g

 - Carbohydrates: 0.9g

Benefits:

 - Digestive Health: May aid digestion and reduce symptoms of indigestion.

 - Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage.

Paprika:

 - Calories: 6 kcal

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0.3g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

 - Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A and C, which support vision and immune function.

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

Salt and Pepper:

Salt (per 1 teaspoon):

 - Sodium: ~2,300 mg (important to use in moderation)

  Pepper (per 1 teaspoon):

 - Calories: 6 kcal

 - Contains piperine, which may aid in digestion and have antioxidant properties.

Using these ingredients not only enhances the flavor of your dish but also provides a range of nutritional benefits that contribute to a balanced diet.