Lobio Adjaruli
A hearty and flavorful bean stew from the Adjara region of Georgia, Lobio Adjaruli is made with red kidney beans, walnuts, spices, and herbs. It's often served as a warm appetizer or a main vegetarian dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g Dried red kidney beans(soaked overnight)
- 2 medium Onions(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 100 g Walnuts(finely ground)
- 1 small bunch Cilantro(chopped)
- 1 small bunch Parsley(chopped)
- 1 tsp Coriander seeds(ground)
- 1/2 tsp Marigold petals (calendula)(dried, ground (optional, for color and subtle flavor))
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes(or to taste)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper(freshly ground)
- as needed Water or vegetable broth
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Drain and rinse the soaked kidney beans. Place them in a pot and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
⏱️ 45-60 minutes - 2
While beans are cooking, heat vegetable oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes - 3
Add minced garlic, ground coriander, ground marigold petals (if using), and red pepper flakes to the onions. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
In a large bowl, combine the cooked beans, sautéed onion mixture, finely ground walnuts, chopped cilantro, and chopped parsley. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- 5
Transfer the bean mixture back to the pot. Add enough water or vegetable broth to create a stew-like consistency. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
💡 Tip: The consistency should be thick but still pourable. - 6
Bring the lobio to a gentle simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 7
Serve warm, garnished with extra fresh cilantro and parsley. Lobio is traditionally served with Georgian bread (shotis puri) or as a side dish.
💡 Tip: Lobio can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors often deepen overnight.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking the beans overnight is essential for reducing cooking time and improving digestibility.
- ✓Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness.
- ✓If you don't have dried marigold petals, you can omit them, but they add a lovely traditional touch.
🔄 Variations
- Some variations include adding a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer color and flavor.
- A splash of vinegar or lemon juice can be added at the end for a touch of acidity.