Discover the traditional Afghan dish Tash-Kordo, featuring succulent lamb slow-cooked to perfection in a clay oven. This savory recipe highlights rich flavors and tender meat, making it a standout choice for special occasions. Learn how to prepare Tash-Kordo with our step-by-step guide, including tips for achieving the ideal texture and taste. Perfect for those seeking an authentic taste of Afghan cuisine!

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into large chunks

- 2 tbsp vegetable oil

- 2 large onions, finely chopped

- 4 garlic cloves, minced

- 1 tbsp ground cumin

- 1 tbsp ground coriander

- 1 tsp ground turmeric

- 1 tsp ground black pepper

- 1 tsp paprika

- 2 large tomatoes, chopped

- 2 cups beef or lamb broth

- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped

- 1 cup carrots, sliced

- 1 cup potatoes, cubed

- Salt to taste

- Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Lamb:

  - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add lamb chunks and sear until browned on all sides. Transfer lamb to a plate and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics:

  - In the same skillet, add chopped onions and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Spice It Up:

  - Stir in ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes:

  - Add chopped tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they start to break down and release their juices.

Combine Ingredients:

  - Return the browned lamb to the skillet. Pour in the beef or lamb broth and add chopped apricots, carrots, and potatoes. Stir to combine.

Slow Cook:

  - Transfer the mixture to a clay oven or a slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the lamb is tender and easily falls off the bone.

Final Touch:

  - Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Serve:

  - Serve Tash-Kordo hot with steamed rice or flatbread for a complete meal.

Enjoy this authentic Tash-Kordo, a delicious representation of Afghan culinary traditions, perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal!

Nutritional Value:

Lamb Shoulder:

- Calories: 250

- Protein: 25g

- Fat: 18g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

- Rich in high-quality protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.

- Provides essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, zinc, and iron, important for energy production and immune function.

Vegetable Oil:

- Calories: 120

- Fat: 14g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 0g

Benefits:

- Contains healthy fats that can support heart health when used in moderation.

- Provides essential fatty acids that are important for cell function.

Onions:

- Calories: 44

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 10g

- Fiber: 1.9g

Benefits:

- Rich in antioxidants such as quercetin, which can help reduce inflammation and support heart health.

- Contains fiber that aids in digestion.

Garlic:

- Calories: 5

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

- Known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties.

- Contains allicin, which may help improve cardiovascular health and boost the immune system.

Ground Cumin:

- Calories: 8

- Protein: 0.4g

- Fat: 0.5g

- Carbohydrates: 0.8g

Benefits:

- Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

- May aid in digestion and help regulate blood sugar levels.

Ground Coriander:

- Calories: 5

- Protein: 0.2g

- Fat: 0.3g

- Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

- Rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

- May help improve digestion and lower blood sugar levels.

Ground Turmeric:

- Calories: 8

- Protein: 0.3g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 1.4g

Benefits:

- Contains curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

- May help reduce symptoms of arthritis and improve brain health.

Ground Black Pepper:

- Calories: 6

- Protein: 0.2g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 1.5g

Benefits:

- Contains piperine, which may enhance the absorption of other nutrients.

- Has antioxidant properties and may support digestive health.

Paprika:

- Calories: 6

- Protein: 0.3g

- Fat: 0.3g

- Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

- Rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health.

- Contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation.

Tomatoes:

- Calories: 22

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 5g

- Fiber: 1.5g

Benefits:

- High in vitamins A and C, which are important for skin health and immune function.

- Contains lycopene, an antioxidant that may reduce the risk of certain cancers.

Beef or Lamb Broth:

- Calories: 30-40 (varies by brand)

- Protein: 5-10g

- Fat: 1-2g

- Carbohydrates: 0-2g

Benefits:

- Provides a good source of collagen, which supports joint and skin health.

- Can help with hydration and adds flavor without excessive calories.

Dried Apricots:

- Calories: 80

- Protein: 0.8g

- Fat: 0.1g

- Carbohydrates: 21g

- Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

- Rich in vitamins A and C, which support vision and immune health.

- High in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Carrots:

- Calories: 25

- Protein: 0.5g

- Fat: 0.1g

- Carbohydrates: 6g

- Fiber: 1.5g

Benefits:

- High in vitamin A, which is essential for eye health and immune function.

- Contains antioxidants such as beta-carotene, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Potatoes:

- Calories: 130

- Protein: 3g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 30g

- Fiber: 3g

Benefits:

- Provides a good source of potassium, which supports heart health and blood pressure regulation.

- Contains fiber that aids in digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.

Fresh Cilantro:

- Calories: 1

- Protein: 0.1g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 0.2g

Benefits:

- Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which support various aspects of health including immune function and bone health.

- Contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and support overall health.