12+ Best Azeri Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds and Impress Your Friends!
If you’re looking to spice up your cooking routine, the rich tapestry of Azeri cuisine offers flavors that are both unique and inviting. With a delightful blend of herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients, these dishes promise to take your taste buds on an exciting journey. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these irresistible recipes that are sure to become favorites in your kitchen!
This classic Azeri dish is a comforting bowl of fluffy rice infused with aromatic saffron and tender lamb. The slow-cooked meat adds depth and richness, while the saffron lends a luxurious touch that makes every bite special.
2 cups basmati rice
500g lamb, cut into chunks
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cups water or broth
1 tsp saffron threads
1 tsp turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp vegetable oil
This dish is popular for family gatherings and celebrations, as it brings everyone together around the table. The fluffy rice absorbs all the savory flavors from the lamb, creating a meal that feels both hearty and comforting.
Dolma is a beloved dish that features grape leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and spices. Each bite of these little parcels bursts with an array of tastes, making them a perfect appetizer or side dish.
1 jar grape leaves (about 40 leaves)
1 cup rice
1 onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
1/2 cup tomato paste
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
What makes dolma so special is the versatility of the filling, which can be adjusted based on your preferences. These little bundles are often served with a side of yogurt for dipping, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory filling.
Kufteh are deliciously spiced meatballs that are tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Made with a mix of ground meat, rice, and fragrant spices, they are perfect for a hearty meal or as a snack.
500g ground beef or lamb
1/2 cup rice, rinsed
1 onion, grated
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
This dish is a staple in Azeri households and is often served with a side of fresh salad or flatbread. The combination of spices and the crunch from frying make kufteh irresistible, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on your own!
Qutab are savory stuffed flatbreads that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Filled with a variety of ingredients, such as greens, cheese, or minced meat, they are a delightful snack or light meal.
Qutab is loved for its versatility; you can fill it with whatever ingredients you have on hand. They are often served with a side of yogurt or a tangy sauce, making them a favorite at gatherings and street food markets alike.
Dushbara are tiny, delicate dumplings filled with minced meat and spices, swimming in a flavorful broth. These little morsels are a comforting dish that warms you up from the inside out, perfect for chilly days.
1 cup flour
1/2 cup water
200g ground beef or lamb
1 onion, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
2 liters of meat or vegetable broth
Fresh herbs for garnish (like cilantro or parsley)
Dushbara is often enjoyed during family gatherings and is a dish that brings everyone together. The broth is rich and savory, while the dumplings offer a tender bite, making each spoonful truly satisfying!
