Dovga with Meat Recipe from Azerbaijan | Ingredients: lamb, onion, rice, peas, sorrel, cilantro, spices, salt

Dovga with Meat

Dovga with Meat Recipe from Azerbaijan | Ingredients: lamb, onion, rice, peas, sorrel, cilantro, spices, salt
Region / culture: Azerbaijan | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Dovga with Meat
Dovga with Meat

Dovga with Meat is a traditional Azerbaijani dish that is both hearty and delicious. This dish is perfect for a cold winter day, as it is warm and comforting. The combination of lamb, rice, sorrel, and matsoni creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Dovga with Meat has been a staple in Azerbaijani cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the rural regions of Azerbaijan, where lamb and dairy products are abundant. This dish was traditionally made during special occasions and celebrations, as it is a labor-intensive recipe that requires time and effort to prepare.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Grind the lamb with onion using a mincer, then add salt and pepper.
  2. Knead the mincemeat and shape it into small balls.
  3. Cook the meatballs in broth with soaked peas until they are done.
  4. Next, add rice, sorrel, greens, meatballs, matsoni, and salt.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil and continue cooking until it is done.

Variations

  • Substitute lamb with beef or chicken for a different flavor.
  • Add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
  • Use yogurt or sour cream instead of matsoni for a creamier consistency.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

- Be sure to cook the meatballs thoroughly before adding them to the broth.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more or less salt and spices.

- Stir the mixture occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Dovga with Meat hot, garnished with fresh dill and a dollop of matsoni on top. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Mince the lamb and onion finely for a smooth texture.

- Cook the meatballs in broth to infuse them with flavor.

- Simmer the mixture slowly to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use spinach or kale instead of sorrel.

- Use basmati or jasmine rice instead of regular rice.

- Use Greek yogurt or kefir instead of matsoni.

Make Ahead Tips

Dovga with Meat can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Dovga with Meat in individual bowls, garnished with a sprig of fresh dill and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with a side of crusty bread or pita for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Dovga with Meat with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a satisfying meal. Enjoy with a side of pickles or olives for a balanced flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Dovga with Meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Calories per serving: 500

Carbohydrates

- Rice: 100g

- Sorrel: 150g

- Total Carbohydrates: 250g

Fats

- Lamb: 500g

- Matsoni: 700g

- Total Fats: 120g

Proteins

- Lamb: 500g

- Total Proteins: 50g

Vitamins and minerals

Sorrel: Rich in Vitamin C and Iron

- Dill: Rich in Vitamin A and Calcium

Alergens

Dairy (Matsoni)

Summary

Dovga with Meat is a nutritious dish that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a balanced meal that provides essential nutrients for a healthy diet.

Summary

Dovga with Meat is a delicious and nutritious Azerbaijani dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This hearty meal is packed with flavor and is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the rich flavors of lamb, rice, sorrel, and matsoni in this comforting and satisfying dish.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Dovga with Meat. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside with my family. My mother, who was an excellent cook herself, had received the recipe from a neighbor who had learned it from her grandmother.

The neighbor, Mrs. Ivanova, was known in our village for her delicious Dovga with Meat. It was a traditional Azerbaijani soup made with yogurt, herbs, and tender chunks of lamb. Mrs. Ivanova graciously shared the recipe with my mother, who in turn passed it on to me.

I remember sitting at the kitchen table with my mother, watching intently as she measured out the ingredients and explained each step of the process. She showed me how to prepare the yogurt by straining it to make it thick and creamy, and how to brown the meat to enhance its flavor.

As the soup simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with the rich aroma of herbs and spices, my mother told me stories of her own childhood and the meals her mother used to make. She spoke of the importance of preserving our culinary traditions and passing them down to future generations.

From that day on, Dovga with Meat became a staple in our household. My mother would often make it for special occasions and family gatherings, and I soon learned to make it myself. Over the years, I have made some adjustments to the recipe, adding my own personal touch with extra garlic or a sprinkle of sumac.

I have fond memories of cooking Dovga with Meat for my own children and grandchildren, passing down the recipe just as my mother had done for me. It has become a cherished family tradition, a reminder of where we come from and the flavors that connect us to our heritage.

As I grew older and traveled to different parts of the world, I discovered that every culture has its own version of yogurt-based soups. From the Greek tzatziki to the Indian raita, each one with its own unique blend of spices and ingredients. But for me, Dovga with Meat will always hold a special place in my heart.

I am grateful for the gift of this recipe and the memories it has brought me over the years. It is a reminder of the strong women who came before me, and the bond we share through our love of cooking and sharing meals with those we hold dear.

And so, as I sit here now, preparing a pot of Dovga with Meat for my family, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary heritage that has been passed down to me. I hope that one day, my own grandchildren will learn to make this soup and carry on the tradition for generations to come. In the meantime, I will continue to savor each spoonful, knowing that it is not just a soup, but a piece of my history and a connection to my roots.

Categories

| Azerbaijani Meat Dishes | Azerbaijani Recipes | Lamb Recipes | Pea Recipes | Rice Recipes | Sorrel Recipes |

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