Afghan Sabzi Chalaw
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish where basmati rice is steamed to perfection and served with a savory spinach and herb stew, often prepared with lamb or beef. This dish is a staple in Afghan cuisine, known for its comforting and wholesome qualities.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds Lamb stew meat(shoulder or shank, cut into 3/4-inch pieces)
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 4 cups Spinach(fresh, baby spinach or chopped large leaves)
- 0.5 bunch Cilantro(chopped)
- 1 medium Large onion(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 5 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 tsp Cumin
- 2 tsp Ground black pepper
- 0.25 tsp Cayenne pepper(optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 7.5 cups Water(for stew and rice)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the lamb stew: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 3 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the lamb stew meat and brown it on all sides. Stir in 2 tsp cumin, 2 tsp black pepper, a pinch of cayenne pepper (if using), and 1 tsp salt. Add 1.5 cups of water, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook over low heat for about 1.5 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- 2
Prepare the rice: While the stew is simmering, wash 2 cups of basmati rice until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain the rice well. In a separate large skillet or pot, heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil over high heat. Add the drained rice and sauté for a few minutes until lightly browned and fragrant. Add 6 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and steam for 30 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- 3
Finish the stew: With about 10 minutes left on the stew's cooking time, remove any bones from the lamb (if using bone-in meat). Add the spinach and chopped cilantro to the pot. Stir well and continue to simmer, covered, for about 10 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted.
- 4
Serve: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Serve the sabzi (spinach stew) over the steamed basmati rice. Spoon any remaining juices from the stew over the top.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use lamb shanks or shoulder cut into larger pieces.
- ✓Ensure the basmati rice is of good quality for the best texture and aroma.
- ✓Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference for spice.
- ✓If using larger spinach leaves, chop them before adding to the stew.
🔄 Variations
- Vegetarian version: Omit the lamb and use vegetable broth for the stew. Add more mushrooms or other vegetables for substance.
- Spicier version: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a fresh chili pepper to the stew.