Delicious and Traditional Shorlog: A Step-By-Step Recipe Guide

Ingredients

1 kg of beef
2 medium onions, finely chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of ground coriander
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 liter of water
3 large potatoes, cut into large chunks
4 large carrots, cut into large chunks
1 bunch of fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 bunch of fresh dill, finely chopped

Steps and instructions

Cut the beef into medium chunks.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions to the pot and sauté until they become translucent.
Add the minced garlic to the pot and stir well.
Add the beef chunks to the pot and brown on all sides.
Add the ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, and salt to the pot and stir until the beef is well coated with the spices.
Pour the water into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour.
Add the potato and carrot chunks to the pot and let the mixture simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the chopped cilantro and dill, then remove the pot from the heat.
Let the Shorlog rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Cutting board - To safely chop the onions, garlic, and vegetables.
Chef's knife - A sharp knife for cutting the beef and chopping the ingredients.
Large pot - To cook and simmer the Shorlog.
Wooden spoon - For stirring the ingredients in the pot.
Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, and salt.
Vegetable peeler - To peel the potatoes and carrots.
Serving bowls - To serve the Shorlog.

Recipe variations

Vegetarian option: Replace the beef with tofu or tempeh chunks.
Chicken Shorlog: Substitute the beef with boneless chicken pieces.
Spicy version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos for some heat.
Curry twist: Incorporate curry powder or curry paste into the spice mix.
Herb-infused: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil.
Root vegetables: Use a combination of turnips, parsnips, or sweet potatoes instead of carrots and potatoes.
Coconut milk: Replace a portion of the water with coconut milk for a rich and creamy flavor.
Additional vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers, green beans, or peas for extra color and nutrients.
Smoky flavor: Include smoked paprika or liquid smoke to give the dish a smoky twist.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent.

Recipe overview

Shorlog is a hearty and comforting stew that hails from traditional Central Asian cuisine. This recipe is packed with robust flavors, utilizing aromatic spices and fresh herbs to create a dish that is as satisfying as it is delicious. Made with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, and carrots, Shorlog is perfect for a cozy family dinner. The recipe is quite straightforward, involving an initial sautéing of onions and garlic followed by the addition of beef and spices. After a period of slow simmering, potatoes and carrots are added into the mix. Towards the end, fresh cilantro and dill are stirred in, adding an extra layer of flavor and freshness to this hearty dish. All in all, expect a deeply flavorful, warming stew that is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use lamb or chicken instead of beef in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or bell peppers to enhance the flavors and add more variety to the dish.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can transfer the browned beef and sautéed onions to a slow cooker along with the spices and water. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. Add the potatoes and carrots during the last hour of cooking.
Can I make Shorlog in advance?
Yes, Shorlog actually tastes better when the flavors have had time to meld together. You can make it in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat gently before serving.
What can I serve with Shorlog?
Shorlog is traditionally served with rice or bread. You can also enjoy it with naan or pita bread.
Can I freeze Shorlog?
Yes, you can freeze Shorlog for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before storing it in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving dishes and utensils

Cutting board - For chopping onions, garlic, potatoes, and carrots.
Chef's knife - A sharp knife for cutting the beef, onions, garlic, and vegetables.
Large pot - To cook the Shorlog and simmer the ingredients.
Wooden spoon - For stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pot.
Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the spices.
Measuring cup - To measure the water.
Serving bowls - For serving the Shorlog.
Garnish - Fresh cilantro and dill for garnishing.

Origin stories

Shorlog, a hearty and warming stew, traces its roots back to the nomadic cultures of Central Asia. In the harsh climates and rugged terrains of this region, people needed a robust and nourishing meal that could easily be prepared over open fires. Shorlog, with its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, became a staple among these communities. The stew's name even has an intriguing etymology, derived from the words "shor," which means salty or savory in many Central Asian languages, and "log," which is believed to refer to the slow-cooking process. Over time, each community has put its own spin on Shorlog, and today, you'll find countless variations of this traditional dish across Central Asia, each one as comforting and delicious as the last.

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.