Shila Plavi
Georgian Funeral Rice
Shila Plavi, often referred to as 'funeral rice,' is a comforting and uniquely spiced pilaf traditionally served at solemn occasions. This dish features tender lamb or beef cooked with rice, a generous amount of black pepper, caraway, and other aromatic spices, creating a deeply flavorful and satisfying meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Lamb shoulder or Beef chuck(cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
- 300 g Arborio rice
- 2 large Onions(thinly sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or more to taste)
- 1 tsp Caraway seeds(toasted)
- 1/2 tsp Coriander powder
- 1 Bay leaf
- 750 ml Beef broth or water(warmed)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil or clarified butter
- to taste Salt
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley or cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat the oil or clarified butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the meat cubes in batches until well-colored on all sides. Remove meat and set aside.
💡 Tip: Ensure the meat is well-browned for maximum flavor. - 2
Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic, freshly ground black pepper, toasted caraway seeds, and coriander powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Return the browned meat to the pot. Add the Arborio rice, bay leaf, and salt. Stir well to coat the rice and meat with the aromatics.
💡 Tip: Arborio rice is used here for its creamy texture, similar to risotto. - 5
Pour in the warmed beef broth or water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- 6
Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
- 7
Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. - 8
Serve hot. Shila Plavi is often eaten as a standalone dish or can be accompanied by a simple Georgian salad.
💡 Tip: The generous amount of black pepper is characteristic of this dish.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Toasting the caraway seeds enhances their flavor.
- ✓Adjust the amount of black pepper to your preference; it's meant to be quite peppery.
- ✓Using good quality broth will significantly improve the flavor.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some recipes use chicken or turkey instead of lamb or beef.
- A pinch of saffron can be added for color and aroma.