Sufra Mastava

About Sufra Mastava

Sufra Mastava is a traditional dish originating from Central Asia, particularly popular in Uzbekistan. This hearty soup is known for its delightful combination of flavors, with roots tracing back to the rich culinary traditions of the region. The name "Sufra" refers to the table setting in Uzbek, while "Mastava" signifies a soup made with rice and meat. Historically, this dish was prepared as a comforting meal for families and has been passed down through generations, adapting slightly across different communities.

Ingredients

• Beef - 500g, ideally a mix of lean cuts and some bones for depth of flavor
• Rice - 200g, preferably medium-grain
• Carrots - 2 large, julienned
• Potatoes - 2 medium, diced
• Onions - 1 large, finely chopped
• Tomatoes - 2, peeled and chopped
• Cabbage - 150g, shredded
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Bay leaves - 2
• Vegetable oil - 2 tablespoons
• Parsley - a small bunch, chopped for garnish

Preparation and Cooking Process

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

To begin with, gather all your ingredients. Ensure that the beef is cut into bite-sized pieces. Wash the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Prepare the carrots by julienning them, dice the potatoes, and finely chop the onions. Prepare the tomatoes by peeling and chopping them, and shred the cabbage. Mince the garlic and have your spices ready.

Step 2: Cooking the Beef

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. Add the beef pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides. The browning process is crucial as it adds a rich flavor to the broth.

Step 3: Building the Soup Base

Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes, julienned carrots, and diced potatoes. Stir the mixture to combine all the ingredients well.

Step 4: Simmering the Mastava

Add approximately 1.5 liters of water to the pot and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer and add the shredded cabbage, bay leaves, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for about an hour, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 5: Cooking the Rice

Once the beef is tender, add the washed rice to the soup. Stir well to incorporate the rice into the soup, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Continue simmering the soup for another 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through. You may need to add more water if the soup becomes too thick, so keep an eye on the consistency.

Serving Sufra Mastava

Before serving, remove the bay leaves from the pot. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed. Ladle the hot Sufra Mastava into bowls, ensuring each serving contains a good mix of beef, rice, and vegetables. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Enjoying Your Meal

Sufra Mastava is best enjoyed hot, and it pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread. This dish is perfect for cold days or when you’re in need of a comforting, filling meal. The blend of flavors from the tender beef, the earthiness of the carrots, and potatoes, combined with the fragrant garlic and parsley garnish, make this soup a delightful culinary experience. As you savor each spoonful, you can imagine the generations of families gathered around a table, sharing stories and savoring this traditional dish.