Chukuchuk - Kyrgyz Delight

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 500g (1.1 lb) ground lamb 500g (1.1 lb) ground lamb
• 2 onions, finely chopped 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Dumpling wrappers Dumpling wrappers
• Sour cream or yogurt, for serving Sour cream or yogurt, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 30g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 4g, 2g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground lamb, chopped onions, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Take a dumpling wrapper and place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center. Fold the wrapper in half and seal the edges by pressing firmly.
3. 3.
   Repeat the process until all the meat mixture is used.
4. 4.
   Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the dumplings float to the surface.
5. 5.
   Once cooked, remove the dumplings from the water using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a serving dish.
6. 6.
   Serve the Chukuchuk hot, accompanied by a generous dollop of sour cream or yogurt.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef and lamb — Ensure that the meat is fresh and of high quality. Opt for lean cuts to reduce excess fat in the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the meat mixture.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the dumplings.
• Serve Chukuchuk with a side of fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for added freshness.

Serving advice

Chukuchuk is best served hot, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve it as a main course accompanied by a side of fresh salad or pickles to balance the richness of the dish. Don't forget to top each dumpling with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for a creamy finish.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Chukuchuk dumplings on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The vibrant colors of the dish will be visually appealing. Serve it family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves to the delicious dumplings.