Bala Aşırı Recipe

Bala Aşırı is a traditional dish with roots deeply embedded in the culinary traditions of Central Asia. Known for its hearty and satisfying nature, this dish has been a staple for generations. Its comforting blend of spices and textures has made it a beloved dish during family gatherings and special occasions. The name "Bala Aşırı" can be translated roughly to "sweet excessive" in certain Turkic languages, indicating its rich and flavorful profile.

Ingredients

• Lamb - 500g of diced lamb
• Dried Apricots - 100g, chopped
• Onions - 2 large onions, finely chopped
• Carrots - 2 medium-sized, sliced
• Saffron - a generous pinch
• Rice - 300g, rinsed
• Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
• Cumin - 2 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Olive Oil - 3 tablespoons

Preparation

Begin by preparing all the ingredients so they're ready for easy assembly. Dice the lamb into bite-sized pieces, chop the apricots, and finely chop the onions. Slice the carrots evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.

Cooking Process

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they are translucent.
2. Add the diced lamb to the pot, cooking until it's browned on all sides.
3. Stir in the carrots and apricots, allowing them to absorb the flavors.
4. Sprinkle the saffron, cinnamon, and cumin over the meat and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything with the spices.
5. Add the rice to the pot, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
6. Pour in just enough water to cover the mixture, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, allowing the dish to simmer for approximately 30 minutes. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on the water level, adding more if necessary. Use a cooking timer to keep track of the time.
8. Once the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed all the liquid, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Enjoying Bala Aşırı

Serve this aromatic dish directly from the pot, ensuring each serving gets a generous portion of the tender lamb, sweet apricots, and perfectly cooked rice. Bala Aşırı can be enjoyed on its own or as a delightful complement to a fresh salad or yogurt-based side dish. It’s the perfect meal to gather around with family, sharing both food and stories. Don't forget to make use of a cooking timer to perfect your dish every time!