Tblisi Beef

Tblisi Beef Recipe from Georgia with Black Pepper and Paprika

Region / culture: Georgia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Tblisi Beef is a delicious and hearty dish that originates from the country of Georgia. This recipe features tender chunks of beef cooked in a flavorful and aromatic spice mixture, served over a bed of flat noodles. The combination of spices and ingredients creates a rich and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy night in.

History

Tblisi Beef is a traditional Georgian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The recipe has been passed down through families and is a staple in Georgian cuisine. The dish is named after the capital city of Georgia, Tbilisi, where it is a popular and beloved meal. Tblisi Beef is often served at special occasions and gatherings, as it is a dish that brings people together and is sure to impress guests.

Ingredients

1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp white pepper
1 tsp red pepper flakes
4 tsp salt
4 tsp peppercorns
3 tsp dry mustard
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp allspice
2.5 lb (1.13 kg) beef steak, 0.75 inches thick
12 cups flat noodles
1 tbsp vegetable oil
8 cups beef stock
4 cups chopped onions
32 oz (907 g) sour cream or 32 oz plain yogurt
mushrooms

How to prepare

In a bowl, mix the spices and set aside.
Place the meat on a cutting board and cut it into 0.75-inch chunks.
Lay the chunks flat and sprinkle them with the spice mixture.
Cook the noodles and keep them in the water.
Heat a large, heavy pot over high heat for 3 – 4 minutes.
Add 1 tbsp of vegetable oil and then the onions.
Sauté until the onions start turning translucent.
Add the meat and the remaining spice mixture.
Stir and cook for approximately 4 – 6 minutes.
Add the stock.
Scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate the crusts into the meat.
Cook for 6 more minutes, then reduce the heat to medium-high and stir in the sifted flour.
Stir and cook for 3 minutes.
Add the mushrooms and cook for 3 more minutes.
Whisk in the sour cream and cook for 2 – 3 minutes.
Drain the noodles, place a serving of noodles on each plate, and serve the meat mixture over the noodles.

Variations

You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas to the dish for added nutrition and flavor.
For a spicier version, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
You can use lamb or chicken instead of beef for a different twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cut the beef into uniform chunks to ensure even cooking.

- Searing the beef before adding the stock will help to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust.

- Adjust the amount of spices to suit your personal taste preferences.

- For a richer flavor, you can use beef bone broth instead of regular beef stock.

- Serve the Tblisi Beef over hot noodles to keep the dish warm and comforting.

Serving Suggestions

Tblisi Beef is best served hot over a bed of flat noodles. You can garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad to round out the meal.

Cooking Techniques

Searing the beef before adding the stock will help to develop a rich flavor.

- Cooking the onions until translucent will add sweetness and depth to the dish.

- Adding the spices to the meat before cooking will ensure that the flavors are well distributed.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chicken or vegetable stock instead of beef stock.

- Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for regular yogurt.

- You can use any type of pasta or rice in place of flat noodles.

Make Ahead Tips

Tblisi Beef can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the cooked dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Tblisi Beef in a large serving bowl or on individual plates. Garnish with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful presentation. You can also serve the dish with a side of pickles or marinated vegetables for added color and texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Tblisi Beef pairs well with a glass of red wine such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. You can also serve the dish with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Tblisi Beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a pot on the stove over low heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or stock to prevent the dish from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Tblisi Beef contains approximately 400 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

Tblisi Beef contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

Tblisi Beef contains approximately 20 grams of fats per serving.

Proteins

Tblisi Beef contains approximately 35 grams of proteins per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Tblisi Beef is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

Tblisi Beef contains dairy (yogurt) and wheat (noodles).

Summary

Tblisi Beef is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a comforting meal.

Summary

Tblisi Beef is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This traditional Georgian recipe features tender chunks of beef cooked in a fragrant spice mixture, served over a bed of flat noodles. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals, Tblisi Beef is a satisfying and delicious meal that is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Tblisi Beef. It was many years ago, during a trip to Georgia, the country not the state. I had always been fascinated by the rich and diverse cuisine of different cultures, and Georgia was no exception. Known for its flavorful spices and hearty dishes, I was eager to explore the local food scene.

One day, while wandering through the bustling streets of Tbilisi, the capital city of Georgia, I stumbled upon a small, family-owned restaurant tucked away in a quiet corner. Intrigued by the delicious aroma wafting from the kitchen, I decided to step inside and sample some of their traditional dishes.

As I sat down at a cozy table, the friendly owner, a stout woman with a warm smile, approached me and asked if I would like to try their signature dish – Tblisi Beef. Curious and hungry, I eagerly agreed. The dish arrived at my table steaming hot, a fragrant mix of tender beef, aromatic herbs, and spices. With the first bite, I was hooked. The flavors danced on my tongue, a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and tangy.

I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish myself. I asked the owner if she would be willing to share her recipe with me, and to my delight, she agreed. Over the next few days, I spent hours in her kitchen, watching and learning as she prepared the dish from scratch. I took notes, asked questions, and soaked up every bit of knowledge like a sponge.

The key to the dish, she explained, was the quality of the ingredients. Fresh, high-quality beef was essential, as well as a blend of aromatic spices such as coriander, cumin, and paprika. She also emphasized the importance of patience and attention to detail – slow-cooking the beef until it was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and adjusting the seasoning to taste.

After several days of training, I felt confident enough to try making Tblisi Beef on my own. I gathered the ingredients, rolled up my sleeves, and got to work. The kitchen filled with the intoxicating aroma of spices as I browned the beef and simmered it in a rich, flavorful sauce. I tasted and adjusted, tasting again until it was just right.

When the dish was finally ready, I plated it up and took a tentative bite. Memories of my time in Georgia flooded back as the familiar flavors danced on my tongue. I had done it – I had successfully recreated the Tblisi Beef that had captured my heart in that little restaurant in Tbilisi.

Since then, Tblisi Beef has become a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I have shared it with friends and family, impressing them with the exotic flavors and heartiness of the dish. It has become a symbol of my love for exploring new cultures and cuisines, a reminder of the warmth and hospitality I experienced in a far-off land.

As I sit here now, penning down this story, I can't help but smile at the memories it brings back. The sights, sounds, and tastes of Georgia are forever etched in my mind, and the recipe for Tblisi Beef will always hold a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of the joy of discovery, the thrill of learning something new, and the power of food to connect us across borders and cultures.

So, if you ever find yourself in Georgia, be sure to seek out Tblisi Beef. And if you can't make the journey, I hope my story inspires you to recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen. Who knows, maybe you'll stumble upon a new favorite recipe of your own – just like I did all those years ago.