Georgian-inspired Tharıd with Spiced Lamb and Yogurt Sauce

Ingredients

In this Georgian adaptation of Tharıd, we incorporate the unique flavors and ingredients of Georgian cuisine. The original Egyptian dish is typically made with lamb or beef, but we enhance the flavor profile by marinating the lamb in a blend of Georgian spices, such as fenugreek, coriander, and paprika. Additionally, we replace the traditional Egyptian flatbread with toasted Georgian bread, which adds a distinct crunch and texture to the dish. The yogurt sauce is also a Georgian addition, providing a tangy and creamy contrast to the rich flavors of the stew. We alse have the original recipe for Tharıd, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon fenugreek 1 teaspoon fenugreek
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 slices Georgian bread, toasted 4 slices Georgian bread, toasted
• 500ml (2 cups) lamb or vegetable broth 500ml (2 cups) lamb or vegetable broth
• 1 cup plain yogurt 1 cup plain yogurt
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the lamb, olive oil, minced garlic, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, fenugreek, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the lamb evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
2. 2.
   Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the marinated lamb and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside.
3. 3.
   In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the lamb back to the pot and stir in the toasted Georgian bread slices.
4. 4.
   Pour the lamb or vegetable broth into the pot, ensuring that the bread is fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the lamb is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. 5.
   While the stew is simmering, prepare the yogurt sauce by whisking the plain yogurt with a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
6. 6.
   Once the stew is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Serve the Tharıd hot, garnished with a dollop of yogurt sauce and fresh cilantro or parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Georgian bread — Toast the bread slices until they are crispy and golden brown. This will add a delightful crunch to the Tharıd.
• Fenugreek — Fenugreek has a strong flavor, so use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish. If you can't find fenugreek, you can substitute it with a small amount of mustard seeds for a similar flavor profile.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the bread into the broth to create a thicker consistency.
• Serve the Tharıd with a side of Georgian pickles for added tanginess and crunch.
• If you can't find Georgian bread, you can use any crusty bread with a similar texture.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated the next day for an equally delicious meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Georgian-inspired Tharıd hot, garnished with a dollop of yogurt sauce and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley. Accompany it with a side of Georgian pickles and warm bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To present the Tharıd beautifully, arrange the toasted bread slices at the bottom of each serving bowl. Ladle the lamb stew over the bread, allowing it to soak up the flavorful broth. Drizzle the yogurt sauce over the top and garnish with fresh herbs for an appetizing and visually appealing dish.