Chakapuli: Georgian Lamb Stew
Chakapuli
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Category
Stew
Cuisine
Georgian Cuisine
Author:
Teona M
Servings
6
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
90 minutes
Calories
600
Chakapuli is a vibrant celebration of Georgian springtime, blending tender lamb with a burst of green herbs and the distinct tartness of cherry plums. This traditional stew, often enjoyed during Easter and spring festivities, embodies freshness and renewal with its rich, aromatic flavors.
Ingredients
-
3 pounds lamb, preferably shoulder or leg, cut into chunks
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1 .25 cups cherry plums, pitted and halved
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1 .5 cups wild garlic, chopped
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1 .5 cups fresh tarragon, chopped
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2 large onions, thinly sliced
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3 cups white wine (Georgian variety if available)
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1 cup water or as needed
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Directions
Brown and Sauté
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the lamb chunks in batches, searing until all sides are golden brown. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onions.
Cook until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients add Liquids and Simmer.
Pour in the white wine and water. Adjust the liquid so it just covers the ingredients; add more water if necessary.
Season with salt and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
Simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is very tender.
Final Adjustments and Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. The stew should have a balanced, tangy flavor from the plums.
Serve the Chakapuli hot, directly from the stove.
Recipe Note
Enjoy Chakapuli as part of a larger feast, especially during festive gatherings that celebrate the renewal of spring. Its vibrant, sour taste makes it a memorable dish for any celebration.
FAQs:
- Can I use a different type of plum? If cherry plums are not available, greengage plums or a mix of lemon juice with apricots can substitute to achieve a similar tartness.
- What if I can't find wild garlic? Regular garlic can be used, but consider adding fresh chives or green onions to mimic the robust flavor of wild garlic.
Nutrition
Nutrition
- Serving Size
- Approximately one hearty bowl per person
- per serving
- Calories
- 600
- Protein
- 40 grams
- 80%
- Fat
- 35 grams
- 45%
- Carbs
- 20 grams
- 7%