Authentic Lamb Pilaf (Plov) Recipe - A Taste of Russia
Authentic Russian Lamb recipe — Lamb Pilaf (Plov). Imported from TheMealDB.
4
servings
Medium
Difficulty

Ingredients
- 1 kg lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
- 2 cups long-grain rice (washed and soaked for 30 minutes)
- 4 cups water (or lamb broth)
- 2 medium onions, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, whole
- 2 medium carrots, julienned
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon black pepper, ground
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pinch saffron threads (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
8 steps
Sauté the Onions
In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.Brown the Lamb
Add the lamb chunks to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
This step adds rich flavor to the dish.Add Carrots and Spices
Stir in the julienned carrots, cumin seeds, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
Cooking spices with the meat enhances their flavor.Pour in Water
Add water or lamb broth, making sure to cover the meat. Bring to a boil.
Use broth for a deeper flavor.Simmer
Reduce heat and let simmer for about 1 hour or until the lamb is tender.
Check occasionally and add water if necessary.Add Rice
Stir in the soaked rice and whole garlic cloves. Ensure the rice is evenly distributed.
Do not stir too vigorously to avoid breaking the rice grains.Cook the Pilaf
Cover and cook on low heat for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and water is absorbed.
Do not lift the lid during cooking to ensure proper steaming.Serve
Fluff the pilaf with a fork, garnish with saffron if using, and serve hot.
Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
💡 Tips & Tricks
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Up to 3 days in an airtight container
Freezer
Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge
Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
What to Serve With
Complete your international meal with these perfect pairings:
About This Dish
Authentic Lamb Pilaf (Plov) Recipe - A Taste of Russia is a beloved dish from International cuisine.
International cuisine offers a rich tapestry of flavors and cooking traditions that reflect the culture and history of the region. This dish is a wonderful example of its distinctive culinary heritage.
This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 11 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can substitute chicken for lamb, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
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Nutrition Facts
4 serving(s) per recipe
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.



