Discover the ultimate Plov (Pilaf) recipe, a beloved rice dish featuring tender meat, savory carrots, onions, and aromatic spices. Perfect for celebrations and special occasions, this traditional recipe delivers a flavorful and satisfying meal. Learn how to make this classic dish with our easy-to-follow instructions and tips.

Ingredients:

- 1 lb (450g) beef or lamb, cut into cubes

- 2 cups long-grain rice, rinsed

- 2 large carrots, peeled and julienned

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or ghee

- 2 teaspoons cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon ground coriander

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

- 2-3 cups beef or chicken broth

- 1/4 cup raisins or dried apricots (optional)

- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or cilantro)

Instructions:

Sear the Meat:

  - Heat the vegetable oil or ghee in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

  - Add the meat cubes and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables:

  - In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent and slightly golden.

  - Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Carrots and Spices:

  - Stir in the julienned carrots and cook for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.

  - Add cumin seeds, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.

Combine Meat and Rice:

  - Return the browned meat to the pot and mix with the vegetables and spices.

  - Add the rinsed rice and gently stir to combine, making sure the rice is coated with the spices.

Add Broth and Cook:

  - Pour in the beef or chicken broth. The liquid should cover the rice by about 1 inch. If using, add raisins or dried apricots.

  - Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Rest and Serve:

  - Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes.

  - Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Tips:

- For a richer flavor, you can add a few saffron threads to the broth.

- You can also cook Plov in a rice cooker for convenience.

Enjoy your homemade Plov, perfect for festive occasions or a hearty family meal!

Nutritional Values

Beef or Lamb:

- Nutritional Values (per 3 oz/85g serving of cooked meat):

 - Calories: 250-300

 - Protein: 22-25g

 - Fat: 18-20g

 - Iron: 2.5-3mg

 - Zinc: 4-5mg

Benefits:

 - Rich in high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth.

 - Provides iron, which helps in the formation of red blood cells and prevention of anemia.

 - Contains zinc, important for immune function and wound healing.

Long-Grain Rice:

 - Calories: 200

 - Protein: 4g

 - Fat: 0.5g

 - Carbohydrates: 45g

 - Fiber: 0.6g

Benefits:

 - A good source of energy due to its high carbohydrate content.

 - Generally low in fat and cholesterol-free.

 - Provides some essential B vitamins and minerals.

Carrots:

 - Calories: 25

 - Protein: 0.5g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

 - Fiber: 1.7g

 - Vitamin A: 184% of Daily Value (DV)

 - Vitamin C: 7% DV

Benefits:

 - High in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, essential for eye health.

 - Contains antioxidants that help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

 - Supports digestive health due to its fiber content.

Onion:

 - Calories: 45

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 11g

 - Fiber: 2g

 - Vitamin C: 10% DV

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants such as quercetin, which may help reduce inflammation and support heart health.

 - Provides a good amount of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion.

Garlic:

 - Calories: 5

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Fiber: 0.1g

 - Vitamin C: 1% DV

Benefits:

 - Known for its potential immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.

 - Contains allicin, which may help reduce blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.

Vegetable Oil or Ghee:

Vegetable Oil: 

  - Calories: 120

  - Fat: 14g (Saturated: 1.5g)

 - Ghee:

  - Calories: 120

  - Fat: 14g (Saturated: 9g)

Benefits:

 - Provides healthy fats necessary for energy and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

 - Ghee has a higher smoke point and may be easier to digest for some people.

Cumin Seeds:

 - Calories: 8

 - Protein: 0.4g

 - Fat: 0.4g

 - Carbohydrates: 0.7g

Benefits:

 - Contains iron and antioxidants.

 - May aid in digestion and improve metabolic rate.

Ground Coriander:

 - Calories: 5

 - Protein: 0.1g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:Rich in antioxidants and may help with digestion and reducing inflammation.

Paprika:

 - Calories: 6

 - Protein: 0.3g

 - Fat: 0.3g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants and vitamins A and C.

 - May help improve eye health and boost the immune system.

Turmeric:

 - Calories: 8

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0.2g

 - Carbohydrates: 1.6g

Benefits:

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

 - May help support joint health and overall inflammation reduction.

Black Pepper:

 - Calories: 6

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Carbohydrates: 1.5g

Benefits:

 - Contains piperine, which may enhance nutrient absorption and have digestive benefits.

 - Has antioxidant properties.

Salt:

 - Calories: 0

 - Sodium: 2,300mg (100% DV)

Benefits:

 - Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

 - Should be used in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake.

Raisins or Dried Apricots (optional):

 - Calories: 100

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 27g

 - Fiber: 1g

 - Iron: 1mg

Benefits:

 - Provide natural sweetness and are rich in iron, which supports blood health.

 - Offer a good source of antioxidants and dietary fiber.

Incorporating these ingredients into your Plov not only enhances flavor but also adds a variety of nutritional benefits to your meal.