Turkmen Khechana
Khechana is a hearty and flavorful stew, often made with lamb or beef, vegetables like carrots and onions, and seasoned with traditional spices. It's a comforting dish, perfect for family gatherings.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Lamb or Beef(cut into 2-inch cubes)
- 3 large Onions(chopped)
- 4 medium Carrots(peeled and cut into chunks)
- 400 g Tomatoes(diced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 4 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 500 ml Water or Broth
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Coriander
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for garnish Fresh cilantro or parsley(chopped)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the meat on all sides.
- 2
Remove meat and set aside. Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened and lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.
- 3
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Return the meat to the pot. Stir in diced tomatoes, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
- 5
Pour in water or broth, ensuring the meat is mostly submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender.
- 6
Add the carrot chunks to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30 minutes, or until carrots are tender.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use beef broth instead of water.
- ✓If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the carrots against the side of the pot before serving.
- ✓This stew can be made ahead of time; the flavors meld beautifully overnight.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other root vegetables like potatoes or parsnips along with the carrots.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other spices.