Lobio Kartuli (Georgian Red Bean Stew)
A rustic and flavorful Georgian red bean stew, slow-cooked with walnuts, herbs, and spices, offering a rich and satisfying vegetarian main course or side dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Red kidney beans(dried, soaked overnight)
- 2 large Onions(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 100 g Walnuts(finely ground)
- 1/2 bunch Cilantro(chopped)
- 1/4 bunch Parsley(chopped)
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp Fenugreek powder (utskho suneli)
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes(or to taste)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- as needed Water or vegetable broth
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Drain and rinse the soaked kidney beans. Place them in a large pot and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until beans are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
- 2
While beans are cooking, heat vegetable oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.
- 3
Add minced garlic, coriander powder, fenugreek powder, and red pepper flakes to the onions. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 4
In a bowl, combine the cooked beans with the onion-garlic mixture, ground walnuts, chopped cilantro, and parsley. Mix well.
- 5
Transfer the bean mixture back to the pot. Add enough water or vegetable broth to achieve a stew-like consistency. Season with salt and black pepper.
- 6
Bring the stew to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for another 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally and add more liquid if it becomes too thick.
- 7
Serve hot, garnished with extra cilantro and a sprinkle of ground walnuts.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking beans overnight is crucial for reducing cooking time and improving digestibility.
- ✓Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred level of heat.
- ✓The stew should have a thick, hearty consistency, not watery.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the onion mixture for a richer color and flavor.
- Some recipes include a small amount of chopped celery for added aroma.