Traditional Georgian Kharcho Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500g of beef, cubed
  • 2.5L of water
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp of tomato paste
  • 1 cup of uncooked rice
  • 1 tsp of coriander seeds
  • 1 tsp of crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp of dried herbs (parsley, dill, basil)
  • 3 bay leaves
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp of vegetable oil
  • 100g of walnut halves, crushed

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large pot, add the cubed beef and water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and simmer until the beef is tender, about 1-2 hours.
  2. While the beef is cooking, sauté the chopped onions in vegetable oil over medium heat until they are translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste to the onions, stir well and sauté for another 5 minutes.
  4. Once the beef is tender, add the onion and tomato mixture to the pot. Also add the uncooked rice, coriander seeds, crushed red pepper flakes, dried herbs, bay leaves, and salt.
  5. Continue to simmer the soup over medium heat until the rice is fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes.
  6. In the meantime, crush the walnut halves in a food processor or with a rolling pin until they are finely ground.
  7. Once the rice is fully cooked, add the crushed walnuts to the soup and stir well. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - Used to cook the soup and simmer the ingredients.
  • Cutting board - Used to chop the onions and prepare other ingredients.
  • Knife - Used to chop the onions, garlic, and other ingredients.
  • Wooden spoon - Used for stirring the soup while it simmers.
  • Food processor or rolling pin - Used to crush the walnut halves into fine pieces.

Recipe variations

  • Replace beef with chicken or lamb for a different protein option.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with firm tofu or a variety of mixed vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and bell peppers.
  • Add chopped bell peppers or zucchini for extra vegetable goodness.
  • Include some dried fruits like prunes or apricots to add a hint of sweetness to the soup.
  • Experiment with different spices such as cinnamon, cumin, or paprika to add unique flavors.
  • For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving.
  • To make it spicier, add some chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Serve the soup with a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
  • For a heartier version, add cooked chickpeas or lentils to the soup.
  • Try using brown rice or wild rice instead of white rice for a nuttier taste and added texture.

Recipe overview

Enjoy a taste of Georgia with this traditional Kharcho recipe! This hearty and spicy beef and walnut soup is sure to warm you up during the colder months. The combination of tender beef, flavorful herbs, and a kick from the crushed red pepper flakes makes this dish a unique and satisfying meal. The addition of finely ground walnuts adds a richness and depth of flavor that sets this soup apart from others. All in all, it's a simple recipe to prepare and will leave you with a scrumptious soup to enjoy. Get your ingredients ready and let's dive into the cooking process. Enjoy the journey of making this Georgian delight right in your kitchen!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef? Yes, you can substitute beef with other meats such as lamb or chicken for a variation in flavor.
  2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian? To make a vegetarian version, you can replace the beef with tofu or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of water.
  3. Can I use pre-cooked rice instead of uncooked rice? Using pre-cooked rice will alter the texture of the soup. It is best to use uncooked rice for this recipe.
  4. Can I omit the walnuts? While walnuts add a unique flavor and texture to the dish, you can omit them if necessary. However, it may result in a slightly different taste.
  5. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the leftover soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat it on the stovetop before consuming.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Kharcho soup, an exquisite culinary gem, hails from the charming land of Georgia, nestled within the Caucasus region. The aromatic spell it casts hints at the country's ancient history, intermingling with tales of the Silk Road where spices were as valuable as gold. Kharcho, with its hearty beef, aromatic spices, and unique addition of walnuts, serves as a testament to Georgian hospitality. The signature ingredient, tart plum sauce, mirrors the Georgian love for sweet, sour, and savory flavors, beautifully blending in harmony. A bowl of Kharcho is not merely a gastronomic delight, but also an invitation to join a centuries-old feast that celebrates life, love, and camaraderie.

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.