Chicken Uzbek pilaf with cumin and coriander

6 servings

120 minutes

Uzbek chicken pilaf with cumin and coriander is a fragrant and rich dish that carefully preserves the traditions of Uzbek cuisine. Its base is devzira rice, which absorbs the rich flavors of spices and chicken juices during cooking. Cumin and coriander give the pilaf a warm Eastern character, while cardamom and paprika add depth to the flavor. This pilaf is distinguished by its tender texture, juicy meat, and appetizing golden hue. It is perfect for family dinners, festive gatherings, and meetings with friends. It is cooked in a kazan, which helps retain all the aromas of the ingredients and achieve a special flavor balance. The dish pairs best with fresh vegetables and herbs, creating a harmony of spicy and fresh notes. Traditionally, Uzbek pilaf is served with flatbreads and pickled cabbage to enhance its rich gastronomic character.

Energy value per serving

• Calories: 679.9
• Proteins: 28.7g
• Fats: 28.2g
• Carbohydrates: 79g

Ingredients

• Chicken fillet: 500 g
• Devzira rice: 500 g
• Onion: 4 pc
• Garlic: 4 clove
• Carrot: 500 g
• Vegetable oil: 150 ml
• Ground coriander: 1 tbsp
• Cumin seeds (jeera): 1 tbsp
• Ground paprika: 1 tsp
• Ground chili pepper: 1 tsp
• Cardamom pods: 5 pc
• Salt: to taste
• Allspice peas: 3 pc

Cooking steps

1. It is advisable to prepare all ingredients in advance. Cut the chicken meat into cubes. Chop the onion. Cut the carrot into strips. Peel the garlic. Rinse the rice.

   Required ingredients:

   • Chicken fillet: 500 g
   • Onion: 4 pieces
   • Carrot: 500 g
   • Garlic: 4 cloves
   • Devzira rice: 500 g

2. Sauté the vegetables in vegetable oil in a pan over high heat with cardamom pods. When the onion and carrot are soft and golden, add the chicken. Fry until the meat is cooked.

   Required ingredients:

   • Vegetable oil: 150 ml
   • Cardamom pods: 5 piece
   • Onion: 4 pieces
   • Carrot: 500 g
   • Chicken fillet: 500 g

3. Transfer everything to the cauldron (wok with a thick bottom) and add spices.

   Required ingredients:

   • Ground coriander: 1 tablespoon
   • Cumin seeds (jeera): 1 tablespoon
   • Ground paprika: 1 teaspoon
   • Ground chili pepper: 1 teaspoon
   • Salt:  to taste
   • Allspice peas: 3 pieces

4. Add rice and place garlic on top. Pour boiling hot water so that the rice is covered by 1-2 centimeters. Do not stir! Reduce heat to medium. Cover with a lid and do not touch for 30-40 minutes.

   Required ingredients:

   • Devzira rice: 500 g
   • Garlic: 4 cloves

5. Then open the lid and mix everything. It is advisable to let it steep for another hour or two.