Chrov Plav

Chrov Plav Recipe: A Delicious Vegetarian Dish from Armenia

Region / culture: Armenia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Chrov Plav is a traditional Cambodian dish that is a delicious combination of rice, dried fruits, nuts, and honey. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and savory flavor profile in their meals.

History

Chrov Plav has been a popular dish in Cambodia for many years, often served during special occasions and celebrations. The combination of rice and dried fruits is a nod to the country's rich agricultural history and the abundance of fruits grown in the region.

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked rice
0.25 cup chopped almonds
2 tbsp currants
2 tbsp raisins
6 dried prunes, pitted and coarsely chopped
3 tbsp chopped dates
4 tbsp butter
0.25 cup dried apricots, pitted and cut into strips 0.25"x1"
1 tbsp honey
2 cups cold water

How to prepare

Soak the dates, currants, and prunes in a bowl of warm water for 15 minutes.
Then remove them, pat them dry, and mix them with the other dried fruits.
Melt the butter in a large, heavy skillet over high heat.
Add the fruit mixture and the almonds.
Reduce the heat to low and stir for 4 minutes, then stir in the honey, rice, and water.
Raise the heat to high and bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes.
Serve hot.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and spicy flavor.
Swap out the dried fruits for your favorites, such as dried cranberries or figs.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier twist on this traditional dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to soak the dried fruits in warm water before using them in the recipe to help soften them and enhance their flavor.

- Be sure to stir the fruit mixture constantly while cooking to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

- Adjust the amount of honey to suit your taste preferences - you can add more or less depending on how sweet you like your dish.

Serving Suggestions

Chrov Plav can be served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or vegetables. Pair with a fresh salad or steamed greens for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Chrov Plav is to cook the rice and dried fruits together slowly to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to absorb the sweetness of the fruits. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have all the dried fruits on hand, feel free to mix and match with what you have available. You can also substitute the almonds with other nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Chrov Plav can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chrov Plav in a large serving bowl garnished with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chrov Plav with a crisp white wine or a fruity iced tea for a refreshing and complementary beverage option. Enjoy with friends and family for a memorable dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Chrov Plav in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Chrov Plav contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

Chrov Plav is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the rice and dried fruits. It provides a good source of energy for your body to fuel your daily activities.

Fats

The butter and almonds in this dish provide healthy fats that are essential for brain function and overall health. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Proteins

While Chrov Plav is not a significant source of protein, the almonds in the dish provide a small amount of this essential nutrient. Consider adding a protein-rich side dish or topping with grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal.

Vitamins and minerals

The dried fruits in Chrov Plav provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and iron. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (almonds) and butter, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Chrov Plav is a nutritious and flavorful dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and essential nutrients. Enjoy as part of a well-rounded meal for a delicious and satisfying dining experience.

Summary

Chrov Plav is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of dried fruits with the nuttiness of almonds and the richness of butter. Enjoy this traditional Cambodian recipe as a main dish or side dish for a unique and satisfying dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Chrov Plav. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Nguyen, in her cozy kitchen. Mrs. Nguyen was a fabulous cook, and I always loved watching her prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes with such skill and finesse.

On that particular day, Mrs. Nguyen had a special treat in store for me. She told me that she was going to teach me how to make Chrov Plav, a delicious and fragrant Cambodian dish that she had learned from a friend many years ago. I was thrilled at the opportunity to learn a new recipe, especially from someone as talented as Mrs. Nguyen.

As we gathered the ingredients and prepared to start cooking, Mrs. Nguyen began to tell me the story behind the recipe. She explained that Chrov Plav was a dish that was typically made for special occasions and celebrations in Cambodia. It was a dish that brought people together and symbolized unity and harmony.

Mrs. Nguyen showed me how to marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemongrass, garlic, and ginger, which would give the dish its signature flavor. She then demonstrated how to sauté the chicken until it was golden brown and crispy, adding in a generous amount of coconut milk to create a rich and creamy sauce.

As the dish simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with an irresistible aroma, Mrs. Nguyen shared with me the importance of passing down recipes from one generation to the next. She told me that recipes were like treasures, to be cherished and shared with loved ones.

After a few hours of cooking and stirring, the Chrov Plav was finally ready. Mrs. Nguyen carefully plated the dish and garnished it with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. The vibrant colors and fragrant spices made my mouth water, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

As I took my first bite of the Chrov Plav, I was transported to a world of bold flavors and exotic spices. The tender chicken, bathed in a velvety coconut sauce, melted in my mouth, leaving me craving more. Mrs. Nguyen smiled at me, pleased with my reaction to the dish.

From that day forward, Chrov Plav became a staple in my own kitchen. I would often make it for my family and friends, sharing the story of how I learned the recipe from Mrs. Nguyen. It became a symbol of our friendship and the bond we shared over our love of cooking.

Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to make it my own. But no matter how many times I make Chrov Plav, it will always remind me of that warm summer day in Mrs. Nguyen's kitchen, learning from a master chef and friend.

As I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Chrov Plav, the memories of that day flood back to me, filling me with gratitude for the culinary journey that led me to this delicious dish. And I can't help but smile, knowing that the tradition of sharing recipes and stories will continue to live on for generations to come.