Mongolian Lamb and Buckwheat Porridge
Tsuivan-Style
A hearty and comforting porridge that draws inspiration from the flavors of Tsuivan, a popular Mongolian noodle dish. Tender lamb is simmered with buckwheat groats, root vegetables, and aromatic spices, creating a deeply satisfying and nourishing meal perfect for colder climates.

๐ง Ingredients
- 500 g Lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 200 g Buckwheat groats (kasha)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil or lamb fat
- 1 large Onion, chopped
- 2 medium Carrots, diced
- 1 medium Turnip or rutabaga, diced
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 liter Beef or lamb broth
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds
- 1 tsp Coriander seeds, crushed
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Rinse the buckwheat groats under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
๐ก Tip: Rinsing removes excess starch, preventing a gummy texture. - 2
Heat the oil or lamb fat in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb cubes on all sides. Remove the lamb and set aside.
๐ก Tip: Browning the lamb in batches ensures a good sear and prevents overcrowding the pot. - 3
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sautรฉ until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the diced carrots and turnip/rutabaga, cooking for another 5 minutes until slightly tender.
๐ก Tip: Sautรฉing the vegetables in the lamb fat adds extra flavor. - 4
Stir in the minced garlic, cumin seeds, and crushed coriander seeds. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
๐ก Tip: Toasting the spices enhances their aroma and flavor. - 5
Return the browned lamb to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
๐ก Tip: Cooking the tomato paste deepens its flavor and reduces acidity. - 6
Pour in the beef or lamb broth and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 45 minutes, or until the lamb is tender.
๐ก Tip: Low and slow cooking is key to tenderizing the lamb. - 7
Stir in the rinsed buckwheat groats. Ensure the liquid covers the groats; add more broth or water if needed. Cover and simmer for another 20-25 minutes, or until the buckwheat is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid, creating a porridge-like consistency.
๐ก Tip: The buckwheat will absorb liquid and thicken the stew into a porridge. - 8
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving.
๐ก Tip: This dish is best served hot and can be a complete meal on its own.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โFor a richer flavor, use lamb broth instead of beef broth.
- โIf you don't have fresh herbs, a pinch of dried dill can be added during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- โAdjust the amount of liquid to achieve your desired porridge consistency.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of butter at the end for extra richness.
- Include other root vegetables like parsnips or potatoes.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other spices.