Sebzi Pilaf — Lamb, Fresh Herb Rice from the Village Kitchen 🌾🔥
Hello dear friends! Today, we invite you on a culinary journey back to the compelling heart of Azerbaijan, where the essence of our rich agricultural traditions thrives in every bite. Get ready to embrace the beauty of Sebzi Pilaf, a dish that encapsulates the warmth of our village kitchens and the bountiful flavors of our rolling countryside.
The Heart of Sebzi Pilaf
Sebzi Pilaf is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of life, family, and the love we pour into our cooking. Imagine the tender morsels of lamb simmering alongside an exquisite mix of fresh herbs, their aromas lifting our spirits as they meld with perfectly cooked rice—so comforting, so inviting.
Ingredients
- Lamb: 500g of boneless lamb, cut into small cubes
- Rice: 2 cups of long-grain basmati rice
- Fresh Herbs: A generous handful each of parsley, dill, and cilantro, finely chopped
- Onions: 2 medium onions, diced
- Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced
- Spices: 1 tsp of cumin, 1 tsp of black pepper, and salt to taste
- Oil: 4-5 tablespoons of sunflower oil
- Water: 4 cups of water for cooking the rice
Instructions
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Prepare the Lamb: In a heavy pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Stir in the lamb cubes and season with cumin, black pepper, and salt. Cook until the lamb is browned and slightly crispy on the edges.
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Infuse with Flavor: Add the minced garlic and half of the chopped herbs to the lamb, allowing the fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen. Add enough water to cover the lamb, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Cook until the meat is tender—this may take around 40-50 minutes.
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Cook the Rice: While the lamb is cooking, rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear. In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice and a pinch of salt. Cook until the rice is nearly done, then drain and set aside.
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Combine Everything: Once the lamb is tender, carefully layer the rice over the lamb in the pot. Sprinkle the remaining fresh herbs on top for that vibrant pop of color and flavor. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook on low heat for another 20-30 minutes. This crucial step allows the flavors to meld and the rice to absorb the aromatic juices.
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Final Touches: Once cooked, gently fold the rice into the lamb to combine all the flavors. Be cautious not to break the grains; we want them to remain fluffy and intact.
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Serve with Love: Serve Sebzi Pilaf hot, garnished with a few extra herbs for an added touch of freshness. Pair it with a side of tangy yogurt or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
A Touch of Tradition
As you prepare this dish, remember that Sebzi Pilaf embodies the spirit of community and tradition. Each ingredient tells a story—of sun-drenched fields, the love of our mothers and grandmothers, and the simple, honest pleasures of sharing a meal with loved ones.
In today’s fast-paced world, let’s take a moment to slow down and appreciate the art of cooking. Embrace the rustic delights of your own kitchen—this dish is not only a meal but a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients and heartfelt connections. Enjoy your Sebzi Pilaf and the joy it brings to your table! 🌾🔥
Watch the video by Kənd Həyatı
Video “Sebzi Pilaf — Lamb, Fresh Herb Rice from the Village Kitchen 🌾🔥” was uploaded on 11/02/2025 to Youtube Channel Kənd Həyatı