Guriltai Shol

Guriltai Shol Recipe - Authentic Mongolian Beef Soup

Region / culture: Mongolia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Guriltai Shol is a traditional Mongolian noodle soup that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for warming up on a cold day. This dish is made with thin strips of mutton, dough noodles, and onions in a savory broth. It is a popular comfort food in Mongolia and is often enjoyed during special occasions and gatherings.

History

Guriltai Shol has been a staple in Mongolian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated from the nomadic lifestyle of the Mongolian people, where meat and flour were readily available ingredients. The dish has evolved over time, with different regions and families adding their own unique twists and variations to the recipe.

Ingredients

beef or mutton
salt
onion
pepper and other seasonings (optional)
Dough
Premium wheat flour
A pinch of salt
water

How to prepare

Cut the meat into thin slices and place them in cold water. Add salt and bring to a boil. Mongolians typically use fatty meat for better flavor. You can also add bones with some meat to enhance the broth, but remove them once the broth is ready. While the broth is cooking, prepare the dough.
Dissolve a pinch of salt in cold water. Mix in flour and knead until smooth but firm. Allow the dough to rest. Knead again and roll it out thinly. Cut into strips about 3-4 cm wide. Layer 3-4 strips on top of each other, sprinkling flour in between to prevent sticking. Slice into thin pieces.
Add the thin dough pieces to the boiling broth and cook for 4-5 minutes. Add thinly sliced onions. You may also add pepper and other soup seasonings, although these are not traditionally used in the classic Mongolian guriltai shol.

Variations

Add vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or cabbage to the broth for extra nutrients and flavor.
Use different types of meat such as beef or lamb for a different taste.
Add spices such as cumin, paprika, or chili flakes for a spicier version of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use fatty mutton for a richer flavor in the broth.

- Allow the dough to rest before rolling it out to ensure a smooth texture.

- Add bones to the broth for extra flavor, but remove them before serving.

- Be sure to slice the dough into thin strips for the best texture in the soup.

Serving Suggestions

Guriltai Shol can be served as a main dish on its own, or paired with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. It is traditionally enjoyed with a side of pickles or fermented vegetables for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for Guriltai Shol include boiling the mutton to make the broth, kneading and rolling out the dough for the noodles, and simmering the noodles in the broth until cooked through. It is a simple and straightforward recipe that is easy to prepare.

Ingredient Substitutions

If mutton is not available, you can use beef or lamb as a substitute. You can also use store-bought noodles instead of making your own dough noodles if you are short on time.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough noodles in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use. The broth can also be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Guriltai Shol can be served in individual bowls with a garnish of fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions. You can also drizzle a bit of chili oil or soy sauce on top for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Guriltai Shol pairs well with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread for a complete meal. It also goes well with a glass of Mongolian milk tea or a cold glass of fermented mare's milk.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Guriltai Shol can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the soup in a pot and heat over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Guriltai Shol typically contains around 300-400 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used. It is a filling and satisfying meal that provides energy and nutrients.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in Guriltai Shol come from the wheat flour used to make the dough noodles. Carbohydrates provide energy for the body and are an important part of a balanced diet.

Fats

The fats in Guriltai Shol come from the mutton used in the dish. Fats are essential for the body to function properly and provide a source of energy.

Proteins

The proteins in Guriltai Shol come from the mutton as well. Proteins are important for building and repairing tissues in the body, and are essential for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

Guriltai Shol is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins from the mutton. These nutrients are important for various bodily functions and overall health.

Alergens

Guriltai Shol contains wheat flour, which may be a common allergen for some individuals. It is important to be aware of any food allergies or sensitivities when preparing and serving this dish.

Summary

Guriltai Shol is a nutritious and delicious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a wholesome meal that is perfect for warming up on a cold day.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Guriltai Shol. It was a sunny afternoon in the bustling market of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. I was browsing through the stalls, taking in the sights and smells of the vibrant market, when a kind old woman approached me with a smile on her face. She introduced herself as Oyun, a local cook known for her delicious traditional Mongolian dishes.

Oyun invited me to her humble home that afternoon, where she graciously shared with me her secret recipe for Guriltai Shol. As she handed me a tattered old notebook filled with handwritten recipes, she explained that this particular dish was a family favorite, passed down through generations. I was immediately captivated by the aroma wafting from the pot on her stove, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Oyun patiently guided me through each step of the cooking process, teaching me the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and cooking with love and intention. She showed me how to marinate the lamb in a fragrant blend of spices and herbs, and how to simmer it slowly with vegetables and noodles until it was tender and flavorful. The final touch was a dollop of creamy yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, adding a burst of freshness to the hearty dish.

As I sat down to enjoy my first taste of Guriltai Shol, I was overwhelmed by the depth of flavor and the warmth of the dish. The tender lamb melted in my mouth, and the savory broth was rich and satisfying. I could taste the love and care that Oyun had put into each step of the cooking process, and I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Guriltai Shol countless times, sharing it with friends and family at gatherings and celebrations. Each time I prepare this dish, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon in Ulaanbaatar, learning from Oyun and soaking in the wisdom of generations past. The recipe has become more than just a dish to me - it is a connection to my heritage and a reminder of the power of food to bring people together.

I have since added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to make it my own. Sometimes I use lamb, other times I substitute beef or chicken. I have even tried adding my own blend of spices and herbs to create a unique flavor profile that suits my taste. But no matter how I choose to prepare it, Guriltai Shol always brings me back to that moment of discovery and connection with Oyun.

As I sit here, flipping through the pages of my tattered old notebook, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons I have learned from Oyun and the countless other cooks and chefs who have shared their knowledge with me over the years. Cooking is more than just a way to nourish our bodies - it is a way to honor our past, celebrate our present, and create lasting memories with the ones we love.

So the next time you find yourself in a bustling market, surrounded by the sights and smells of a new culinary adventure, remember to approach each experience with an open heart and a curious mind. You never know what hidden treasures you may uncover, or what delicious recipes may find their way into your own kitchen.