Authentic Shorpo: Traditional Kyrgyz Meat Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of Lamb meat
  • 2 liters of Water
  • 3 medium-sized Potatoes
  • 2 medium-sized Onions
  • 3 medium-sized Carrots
  • 1 medium-sized Bell pepper
  • 2 medium-sized Tomatoes
  • 3 cloves of Garlic
  • 1 bunch of Parsley
  • 1 bunch of Dill
  • 1 bunch of Cilantro
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon of Vegetable oil

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by chopping the lamb meat into medium-sized pieces.
  2. Place a large pot over medium heat, add the vegetable oil and the lamb meat. Cook until the meat turns brown.
  3. Peel the onions and chop them into small pieces. Add them to the pot and sauté until they become translucent.
  4. Peel carrots and potatoes. Chop them along with bell peppers and tomatoes into medium cubes. Add them to the pot.
  5. Stir in the chopped garlic and pour in the water. Bring the broth to a boil.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours.
  7. Meanwhile, finely chop the parsley, dill, and cilantro. Set them aside.
  8. Season the broth with salt and pepper. Then add the chopped herbs.
  9. Let the Shorpo simmer for another 15 minutes.
  10. After this, remove the pot from heat and let it stand, covered, for about 10 minutes before serving.

Tools for making

  • Chopping board - Used for cutting and preparing the ingredients.
  • Knife - Essential for chopping the meat, vegetables, and herbs.
  • Large pot - Used for cooking and simmering the shorpo.
  • Wooden spoon - Ideal for stirring the ingredients in the pot.
  • Measuring cup - Helps to accurately measure the water and oil.
  • Peeler - Used to peel the carrots and potatoes.
  • Garlic press - Useful for mincing the garlic cloves.
  • Soup ladle - Perfect for serving the shorpo into bowls.
  • Cover or lid - Needed to cover the pot while simmering the shorpo.

Recipe variations

  • Replace lamb meat with beef or chicken.
  • Add additional vegetables such as cabbage, peas, or mushrooms.
  • Include herbs and spices like bay leaves, thyme, or paprika for added flavor.
  • For a spicy twist, add chili flakes or jalapenos.
  • Make it vegetarian by substituting the meat with tofu or tempeh.
  • Experiment with different broth flavors like vegetable or mushroom broth.
  • Add dumplings or noodles to the shorpo for a heartier meal.
  • Garnish with sour cream or yogurt for a creamy touch.
  • Try serving the shorpo with a side of bread or rice.
  • For a smoky flavor, add smoked paprika or smoked salt.
  • Include additional seasonings like cumin, coriander, or turmeric for a unique twist.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our Shorpo recipe! Shorpo is a traditional Central Asian soup made with meat, typically lamb, and an assortment of fresh vegetables. The vegetables used can vary, but often include potatoes, onions, carrots, bell peppers, and tomatoes. This recipe also incorporates garlic and a mix of herbs for extra flavor. Shorpo is typically enjoyed as a hearty main dish and is known for its comforting, savory flavors. It's a one-pot meal, which makes for easy preparation and clean-up. In this recipe, we'll walk you through each step of the process, from preparing your ingredients to the final simmer. By the end, you'll have a delicious, homemade Shorpo that serves as a perfect comfort food for chilly days or a warming meal for any time of the year. Enjoy!

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to cook Shorpo?
    It takes approximately 1.5 hours to simmer the Shorpo after adding the vegetables, and an additional 15 minutes after adding the herbs.
  2. Can I use a different type of meat?
    Yes, you can substitute lamb meat with beef or any other preferred meat.
  3. Can I adjust the amount of water?
    Yes, you can adjust the amount of water based on your preference for the thickness of the soup. However, 2 liters of water is a commonly used amount.
  4. Do I have to peel the vegetables?
    Yes, it is recommended to peel the carrots and potatoes before chopping them for the Shorpo recipe.
  5. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
    While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can use dried herbs as a substitution if fresh ones are not available. Adjust the amount according to taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - A pot large enough to hold all the ingredients and allow for simmering.
  • Chopping board - Used to chop the lamb meat, vegetables, and herbs.
  • Sharp knife - Essential for cutting and preparing the ingredients.
  • Wooden spoon - Used for stirring the Shorpo while it simmers.
  • Soup ladle - For serving the Shorpo into bowls.
  • Soup bowls - To serve the Shorpo to your guests.
  • Soup spoons - For eating the Shorpo.
  • Napkins - To clean any spills or to wipe your mouth while enjoying the Shorpo.

Origin stories

Shorpo, a hearty and flavorful soup, hails from the rugged terrains of Central Asia, specifically from Kyrgyzstan. The people of this region have a long-standing nomadic tradition, traversing the vast steppes and mighty mountain ranges. As such, their cuisine is heavily influenced by the need for sustenance that can be easily prepared and carried over long distances. Shorpo, traditionally cooked in a kazan over an open fire, is a perfect representation of this culinary tradition. Made with mutton (a common meat among the nomadic tribes due to the abundance of sheep) and root vegetables that are readily available, this soup is a testament to the tenacity and resourcefulness of the Kyrgyz people. An interesting fact about Shorpo is its name, which literally translates to 'boiling' in Kyrgyz language, symbolizing the simplicity and straightforwardness of its preparation method. So, as you simmer your Shorpo, remember you're not just cooking a soup, but also immersing yourself in a tale of survival and adaptation that's as warming as the dish itself.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.