Tajik-inspired Tameletjie

Ingredients

In this Tajik-inspired version of Tameletjie, we incorporate Tajik spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika to infuse the dish with the flavors of Tajik cuisine. Additionally, we use apricots and raisins to add a touch of sweetness, which is not typically found in the original South African Tameletjie. We alse have the original recipe for Tameletjie, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 500g (1.1 lb) lamb or beef, cut into chunks 500g (1.1 lb) lamb or beef, cut into chunks
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup (240ml) beef or vegetable broth 1 cup (240ml) beef or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 1/4 cup raisins 1/4 cup raisins
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 12g
• Protein: 34g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes.
2. 2.
   Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, and paprika to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly to toast the spices.
3. 3.
   Increase the heat to medium-high and add the lamb or beef chunks to the skillet. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. 4.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.
5. 5.
   Add the dried apricots and raisins to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Serve the Tajik-inspired Tameletjie hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy with Tajik flatbread or rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apricots — Soak the dried apricots in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping them. This will help soften them and enhance their flavor.
• Cumin — Toasting the cumin seeds before grinding them will intensify their aroma and flavor.
• Lamb or beef — For the best results, choose lean cuts of meat and trim any excess fat before cooking.
• Tomatoes — If fresh tomatoes are not available, you can use canned diced tomatoes as a substitute.
• Tajik flatbread — If you can't find Tajik flatbread, you can serve the Tameletjie with naan bread or basmati rice instead.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or a finely chopped chili pepper.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Experiment with different dried fruits such as prunes or dates to add variety to the dish.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop and intensify over time.
• Serve the Tameletjie with a dollop of plain yogurt on top for a creamy contrast to the savory flavors.

Serving advice

Serve the Tajik-inspired Tameletjie as a main course, accompanied by Tajik flatbread or rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness and aroma.

Presentation advice

Present the Tajik-inspired Tameletjie in a deep serving dish, allowing the vibrant colors of the caramelized onions, tomatoes, and tender meat to shine through. Sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro on top for an appealing touch.