Ganfan
Ganfan is a flavorful and hearty dish originating from the Dungan culture, popular in Kyrgyzstan. It features a spicy meat and vegetable sauce served over steamed rice, offering a delicious alternative to noodle-based dishes like Laghman. It can be easily prepared as a vegetarian option upon request.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Lamb or Beef(cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 large Onion(sliced)
- 1 medium Carrot(sliced)
- 1 medium Bell Pepper(sliced (any color))
- 1 small Hot Pepper(finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste))
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(diced)
- 250 ml Beef Broth
- 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes(or to taste)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 200 g Rice(for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Cook rice according to package directions. Keep warm.
- 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove meat and set aside.
- 3
Add sliced onion and carrot to the skillet. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 4
Add bell pepper, hot pepper (if using), and minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- 5
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
- 6
Return the browned meat to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the meat is cooked through.
- 7
Serve the Ganfan sauce over the steamed rice. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
💡 Tip: For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Laza (a spicy seasoning of pepper and oil) can be served on the side for extra heat.
- ✓Ensure all vegetables are cut uniformly for even cooking.
- ✓Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes and hot pepper to your spice preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add mushrooms, zucchini, or other vegetables to the sauce.
- Serve with a side of pickled vegetables.