Plov Recipe

Serves 4–6 | One-Pot Meal

• 2 cups medium grain rice
   
• 1 lb. (450g) beef stew meat or lamb, cubed (optional for vegetarian version)
   
• 1 large onion, chopped
   
• 2–3 large carrots, julienned or grated
   
• 1/4 cup oil
   
• 1½ tsp Crazy Apron Plov Spice Mix (or use: cumin, ground coriander seeds, paprika, black pepper)
   
• Salt to taste
   
• 3½ cups water
   

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly in cold water and soak it for 20–30 minutes. Drain well.
    
2. Heat the oil in a deep pan or wide pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden.
    
3. Add the meat (if using) and cook until browned on all sides.
    
4. Stir in the carrots and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
    
5. Add the spice mix and salt, stir well to coat the meat and vegetables.
    
6. Spread the rice evenly over the meat and vegetables — do not stir.
    
7. Pour in the water gently over the rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
    
8. Cover and cook on low for about 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the water is absorbed.
    
9. Turn off the heat and let it rest, covered, for another 10 minutes.
    
10. Gently fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.
     

 Tips from The Crazy Apron:

• Serve with a side of fresh cucumber and tomato salad or pickled veggies.
   
• For extra flavor, add a whole head of garlic (peeled slightly) to the center before cooking the rice.