Lubieva
Lubieva is a traditional Tajik dish, often described as a sweet and hearty soup or stew made primarily from beans, sugar beets, and wheat. It's a unique vegetarian dish that highlights the use of root vegetables and grains, offering a distinct flavor profile that is both comforting and nourishing.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Dried Beans (e.g., Kidney or Pinto)(soaked overnight)
- 2 l Water(for cooking beans and broth)
- 2 medium Sugar Beets(peeled and diced)
- 1/2 cup Wheat Berries or Cracked Wheat
- 2 medium Onions(finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- to taste Salt
- 1 tbsp Sugar(optional, to enhance sweetness)
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley or Dill(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Drain the soaked beans and place them in a large pot. Cover with fresh water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until beans are partially tender. Drain and set aside.
- 2
In a separate pot, combine the diced sugar beets with 2 liters of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the sugar beets are tender and have released their color into the water.
- 3
Strain the sugar beet liquid into another pot, discarding the cooked beets (or reserving them for another use). This liquid will form the base of the dish.
- 4
Add the partially cooked beans and the wheat berries/cracked wheat to the sugar beet liquid. Bring back to a simmer and cook for about 1 hour, or until the beans and wheat are tender.
- 5
While the beans and wheat are cooking, heat vegetable oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown and caramelized.
- 6
Add the sautéed onions to the pot with the beans and wheat. Stir in salt and optional sugar. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 7
The consistency should be like a thick soup or stew. If it's too thick, add a little more water. If it's too thin, simmer uncovered for a bit longer.
- 8
Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or dill.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking the beans overnight is crucial for reducing cooking time and improving digestibility.
- ✓The sweetness of the dish comes from the sugar beets; adjust the optional sugar to your liking.
- ✓This dish is traditionally cooked in a 'degdon,' a national oven, but a regular pot works well.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some variations may include a small amount of meat broth for added depth of flavor, though it is often prepared as a vegetarian dish.
- Add other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for more complexity.