Kharcho

In the culinary world, Kharcho is a true powerhouse—a hearty, flavorful stew made from beef, rice, and a medley of spices. While the dish's roots are in Georgian cuisine, it has since become popular in many Central Asian countries.

Kharcho


The most interesting aspect of Kharcho lies in its unique combination of ingredients. The beef is simmered in a tomato-based broth along with garlic, onion, bay leaves, coriander, and cumin. But the key to the flavorsome stew is the addition of sundried plum purée and georgian spice mix called adjika. This gives Kharcho a distinctive tartness and a hint of sweetness that elevates it above other stews.

The cooking process for Kharcho is both time-intensive and laborious. The beef is seared on the stovetop before being simmered in the tomato broth for several hours. Then, the sundried plum purée and adjika is added and cooked for a further hour or two. Finally, the rice is added, the stew brought to a boil, and left to simmer for another hour or two. The result is an enchanting stew packed full of flavor and texture.

It's this complexity of both ingredients and preparation that gives Kharcho its unique character. As one renowned Georgian chef puts it: “Kharcho is not simply a stew. It’s a story—one with depth, subtlety, and nuance.” Indeed, the dish is as much about the journey as the final product.

If you're looking to experience Kharcho in all its glory, look no further than a traditional restaurant in Georgia. The flavors and aromas will have you coming back for more. Bon appétit!

Kharcho recipes

Amazing Kharcho recipes sourced from the web.

The origin of Kharcho

Kharcho is a traditional Georgian dish with a unique taste, texture, and history. It is said to have originated in Georgia during the 18th century, but some believe it may have been around much longer.

The origin of this hearty soup is somewhat mysterious, with many different stories surrounding it. Some believe that it first came about when a famous Georgian general was marching his troops through the mountains. He ordered his cooks to prepare a meal for the tired soldiers, so they threw together whatever ingredients were at hand. The resulting mixture became known as kharcho.

Others say that it was invented by shepherds in the region who were looking for something warm and filling to eat during the long winter months. Whatever the truth may be, the dish has certainly become a national favorite.

Kharcho is made with a variety of interesting ingredients like beef, lamb, chicken, tomatoes, chili peppers, garlic, and bay leaves. It is simmered in a rich broth and served with a dollop of sour cream and cilantro. The combination of all these ingredients makes for a wonderfully flavorful and comforting soup.

What makes Kharcho so unique is its eponymous spice - kharchi. This vital ingredient is not only what gives the soup its signature flavor, but it also represents the soul and culture of Georgia. Kharchi is a blend of exotic and fragrant spices including cumin, coriander, cardamom, and ajika, which is a type of spicy red paste made from chili peppers, garlic, and herbs.

The recipe for Kharcho varies from family to family, but it usually includes some combination of the aforementioned ingredients. No matter which version you choose to make, one thing is certain - your kitchen will be filled with rich aromas and your belly will be full of warmth and comfort.

FAQs about Kharcho

How many calories are in Kharcho soup?

The exact number of calories in kharcho soup will depend on the ingredients used and the portion size. Generally, a single serving of kharcho soup can contain anywhere from 200-400 calories.


What is Kharcho made of?

Kharcho is a traditional Georgian soup that typically includes beef, vegetable or chicken broth, chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, garlic, herbs, and spices. It also often includes rice and some type of bean, such as kidney beans or chickpeas. Other ingredients may include mushrooms, potatoes, turnips, carrots, zucchini, parsley, cilantro, dill, bay leaves, cubeb pepper, and hot peppers.


What to eat Kharcho with?

Kharcho is a traditional Georgian stew that is often served with steamed white rice or fresh crusty bread. It can also be served with a side of fresh vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, or pickles.


Where is Kharcho from?

Kharcho is a Georgian soup that originated in the Georgian region of Imereti and is now popular throughout the Caucasus.


Types of Kharcho

Kharcho is a delectable dish that comes in many forms, each one eliciting tantalizing flavors and textures. It is traditional to the Caucasian regions of Russia and Georgia, most likely originating in the latter. This delicious dish is a favorite among many cultures and is quickly becoming popular for those looking for an easy, yet flavorful meal.

The base of kharcho consists usually of boiling beef or lamb with herbs and spices, such as garlic, cilantro, coriander, and cardamom. Rice and tomatoes can be added for extra flavor and texture. The final result is a sublimely succulent, savory dish.

There are numerous variations of kharcho. One version is the popular Georgian Tarhana-style kharcho. This variant utilizes a combination of tomato, fresh herbs and spices, and either lamb or beef. The mixture is boiled and then served over a bed of boiled rice. This dish is mellow yet flavorful and pairs especially well with a salad or, if you’re feeling daring, a glass of white wine.

Another variation is the Russian-style kharcho. This version is made with a robust base of beef and pork, seasoned with an array of spices and herbs. It is simmered with chopped potatoes, carrots, and onions until tender. The unique aroma and flavor of this variant will tantalize your taste buds and make you want more.

Lastly, there is the Azeri kharcho. This iteration of kharcho is prepared with beef and turmeric, providing a robust flavor and scent. Potatoes, carrots, and tarragon are then added to round out the dish. This version is said to be truly vernal and magnificent.

No matter what type of kharcho is served, it is sure to be a hit. With its simple ingredients, diverse variations, and versatile flavors, it is a great choice for an effortless and delicious meal. Savory, succulent, and yummy—kharcho is sure to please all types of palates.