How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, the flavors deepen when made a day in advance.

What can I use instead of pomegranate molasses?

You can use a mixture of balsamic vinegar and honey as a substitute.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if served without bread or with gluten-free bread options.

Georgian Kharcho with Pomegranate Molasses

Name: Georgian Kharcho with Pomegranate Molasses
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Soup
Ingredients: Beef chuck; Beef broth; Onion; Garlic; Vegetable oil; Salt; Black pepper; Crushed tomatoes; Pomegranate molasses; Ground coriander; Ground fenugreek; Cayenne pepper; Fresh cilantro; Green onions; Walnuts

A Hearty and Flavorful Soup

Savor the rich and tangy essence of this traditional Georgian soup, enhanced with the unique taste of pomegranate molasses, perfect for warming up on a cool evening.

2 h
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Beef chuck

2 lbs, cubed

Beef broth

8 cups

Onion

1 large, finely chopped

Garlic

3 cloves, minced

Vegetable oil

2 tbsp

Salt

2 tsp

Black pepper

1 tsp

For the Flavor Enhancers

Crushed tomatoes

1/2 cup

Pomegranate molasses

2 tbsp

Ground coriander

1 tbsp

Ground fenugreek

1/2 tsp

Cayenne pepper

1/2 tsp

For the Garnish

Fresh cilantro

1/4 cup, chopped

Green onions

1/4 cup, thinly sliced

Walnuts

1/2 cup, toasted and crushed

Preparation

Marinating the Beef

Season the beef

Season beef cubes with salt and pepper, set aside for 30 minutes.

Heat oil

In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat.

Brown the beef

Brown the beef cubes on all sides, remove and set aside.

Preparing the Soup Base

Cook onions

In the same pot, add onions and cook until translucent.

Add garlic

Add garlic and continue to sauté for another minute.

Simmer tomatoes

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, letting them simmer for 5 minutes.

Do not overcook the coriander to avoid bitterness.

Cooking Process

Simmer the soup

Return beef to the pot, add beef broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours until meat is tender.

Timing: Browning Beef: 10 minutes; Simmering Soup: 90 minutes. Heat Guide: Browning beef: Medium-high; Simmering soup: Low.

Incorporate flavor enhancers

Stir in ground coriander, fenugreek, cayenne, and pomegranate molasses. Cook for an additional 15 minutes.

Adding pomegranate molasses at the end enhances the complexity without overpowering the soup.

Final touch

Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the cilantro just before serving.

Plating & Serving