Uzbek Mastava with Rice and Fresh Herbs

A traditional hearty soup with rice and tender pieces of meat

Mastava is a comforting Uzbek soup that combines rice, beef, and aromatic herbs for a satisfying meal any time of the year.

1 h 45 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

500g beef chuck, cut into small cubes

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 tbsp vegetable oil

4 cups beef broth

For the Vegetable Mix

2 carrots, diced

2 potatoes, peeled and diced

1 bell pepper, chopped

1 cup tomatoes, diced

For the Rice

1 cup rice, rinsed until the water runs clear

2 cups water

For the Seasoning

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp ground cumin

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garnish

1/2 bunch fresh dill, chopped

1/2 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped

Preparation

Marinating the Beef

Heat the oil

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Sauté onions

Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Brown the beef

Stir in the beef cubes and continue cooking until browned on all sides.

Preparing the Vegetables

Add vegetables

Add carrots, potatoes, bell pepper, and tomatoes to the pot.

Cook vegetables

Mix well and cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Simmer with broth

Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.

Important

Do not let the soup boil too vigorously, or the flavors will not meld properly.

Allow some extra time for natural cooling; this improves the blend of flavors.

Cooking Process

Simmering

Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Adding Rice

Stir the rinsed rice into the soup and cook for another 20 minutes.

Finishing Touch

Season with garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper before serving.

Plating & Serving

Uzbek Mastava with Rice and Fresh Herbs

FaUtensils

Plating & Serving

Serve in deep bowls, ensuring a mix of soup and solids in each serving. Garnish generously with fresh dill and cilantro.

Sauce Pairings

Sour cream

Adds a creamy contrast

Fresh lemon wedges

For a zesty finish

Garnishes & Accompaniments

Fresh dillFresh cilantro

Perfect Sides

Flatbread

Pickled vegetables