Azerbaijan’s Famous Rice Pilaf Varieties A Culinary Tapestry
Rice pilaf, known as “plov” in Azerbaijani cuisine, holds a special place on Azerbaijani dining tables. This beloved dish is prepared with meticulous care, using fragrant spices, local ingredients, and time-honored techniques.
Here are some of Azerbaijan’s famous rice pilaf varieties, each offering a unique taste of this culinary tradition:
1. Shah Plov (Şah Plov): Shah plov is the king of Azerbaijani pilafs. It’s a grand and lavish dish traditionally prepared for special occasions and celebrations. Made with tender chunks of lamb or beef, saffron-infused rice, dried fruits, and aromatic herbs, Shah plov is a masterpiece of flavor and presentation.
2. Toyug Plov (Tovuq Plov): Toyug plov, or chicken pilaf, is a cherished Azerbaijani dish. Tender chicken pieces are simmered with rice, onions, chestnuts, and a blend of spices. The result is a fragrant and hearty pilaf that’s perfect for family gatherings.
3. Sabzi Plov (Sabzi Plov): Sabzi plov is a celebration of herbs. This vegetarian rice pilaf is prepared with copious amounts of fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, and spinach, giving it a vibrant green color and a refreshing flavor. It’s often served with yogurt or sour cream.
4. Shirin Plov (Şirin Plov): Shirin plov, also known as “sweet pilaf,” is a festive dish often enjoyed during special occasions like weddings and Novruz Bayram. It combines rice with sugar, dried fruits, and aromatic spices like saffron, creating a fragrant and mildly sweet pilaf.
5. Sud Plov (Sud Plov): Sud plov, or milk pilaf, is a unique variety made with rice, milk, butter, and sugar. It has a creamy, comforting texture and is often enjoyed as a dessert or special treat.
6. Turshu Plov (Turşu Plov): Turshu plov, or pickle pilaf, is a flavorful and tangy dish that incorporates pickled vegetables into the pilaf. The addition of pickles and their brine infuses the rice with a zesty and savory taste.
7. Gurza Plov (Gurza Plov): Gurza plov is a seafood lover’s delight. It features rice cooked with fish, often sturgeon or carp, and seasoned with a blend of spices. The result is a flavorful and aromatic fish pilaf.
8. Badimcan Plov (Badımcan Plov): Badimcan plov showcases eggplant as the star ingredient. This vegetarian pilaf combines rice with sautéed eggplants, tomatoes, and a medley of herbs and spices.
9. Toyug Yumurtalı Plov (Tovuq Yumurtalı Plov): This pilaf is prepared with chicken, rice, and eggs. It’s a comforting and hearty dish, with the eggs adding a creamy texture to the rice.
These famous Azerbaijani rice pilaf varieties represent the culinary diversity and cultural richness of the country. Whether prepared for a special occasion or enjoyed as a daily comfort food, Azerbaijani plovs are a testament to the skill and creativity of Azerbaijani cooks.