Traditional Georgian Lobio Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of kidney beans
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 bunch of fresh coriander, finely chopped
  • 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of red chili flakes
  • 1 tablespoon of coriander seeds
  • 1 tablespoon of crushed dried marigold petals
  • 1 cup of walnuts, crushed

Steps and instructions

  1. Soak the kidney beans overnight in plenty of water.
  2. Drain the beans the next day and put them in a large pot. Cover them with fresh water by about 2 inches.
  3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer for about 1 hour until they are soft and fully cooked. Drain and set aside.
  4. While the beans are cooking, heat the sunflower oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
  5. Add the chili flakes, coriander seeds, and crushed marigold petals to the skillet and mix well. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  6. Transfer the cooked beans to the skillet and mix well with the spices and vegetables. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Add the crushed walnuts, fresh coriander, and parsley to the skillet. Mix well and continue to cook for another 5 minutes.
  8. Season the lobio with salt and black pepper, mix well, and remove from heat. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
  9. Enjoy your homemade lobio warm or at room temperature.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - For cooking the kidney beans.
  • Skillet - For sautéing the onions, garlic, and bell peppers.
  • Cutting board - For chopping the onion, garlic, bell peppers, coriander, and parsley.
  • Knife - For chopping the vegetables and herbs.
  • Measuring cups - For accurately measuring the kidney beans and walnuts.
  • Measuring spoons - For measuring the salt, black pepper, chili flakes, coriander seeds, and crushed marigold petals.

Recipe variations

  • Add cooked bacon or sausage for a meaty variation.
  • Include other types of beans such as black beans or pinto beans.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices like cumin, paprika, or thyme.
  • Add diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a richer flavor.
  • Incorporate vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for added texture and color.
  • For a creamy version, mix in some sour cream or Greek yogurt.
  • Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy twist.
  • Include some heat by adding chopped jalapenos or hot sauce.
  • For a vegan option, substitute the sunflower oil with olive oil or coconut oil.
  • Try using different nuts such as almonds or cashews instead of walnuts.

Recipe overview

Lobio is a traditional Georgian dish primarily made with kidney beans. It's a hearty, spicy, and incredibly flavorful dish that is often served as a side dish but can easily stand on its own as a main course. This recipe will guide you through the steps of creating your own lobio at home. Expect a combination of soft beans, crunchy walnuts, and an assortment of spices and herbs, all coming together to create a unique and tantalizing flavor profile. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for any time of the year.

Common questions

  1. Can I use canned kidney beans instead of soaking and cooking dried beans? No, for the best flavor and texture, it is recommended to use soaked and cooked dried kidney beans in this recipe.
  2. Can I substitute the sunflower oil with a different type of oil? Yes, you can use olive oil or any other neutral-flavored oil as a substitute for sunflower oil.
  3. Is it necessary to include marigold petals in the recipe? Marigold petals add a unique flavor and aroma to the dish, but if you don't have them, you can omit them without compromising the overall taste.
  4. Can I adjust the spiciness of the lobio? Absolutely! If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount of chili flakes or omit them altogether. Adjust the spiciness according to your personal preference.
  5. Can I make lobio ahead of time and reheat it? Yes, lobio can be made ahead of time and reheated. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to blend together.
  6. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, lobio can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - for cooking the kidney beans
  • Skillet - for sautéing the onions, garlic, and bell peppers
  • Cutting board - for chopping the vegetables and herbs
  • Knife - for chopping the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and herbs
  • Measuring cups and spoons - to accurately measure the ingredients
  • Wooden spoon - for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the skillet
  • Serving bowl - to serve the lobio
  • Garnish - fresh parsley or coriander leaves for garnishing
  • Optional - bread or rice to serve with the lobio

Origin stories

Lobio, a hearty, spiced bean dish, has been warming the hearts and homes of Georgians for centuries. It's a dish wrapped in tradition and community, often enjoyed at supra, the Georgian feast. Each region of Georgia has its own take on lobio, reflecting the diverse culinary landscapes of this small yet gastronomically rich country. Some prepare it with pureed beans while others keep the beans whole, some add walnuts for a rich and creamy texture while others keep it simple with just beans and spices. The dish's name, "lobio," directly translates to "beans" in Georgian, signifying the simplicity and honesty of this beloved dish. One could argue that Lobio is not just a dish, it's a reflection of Georgian hospitality and love for food, served warm, right out of the clay pot.

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.