Discover the rich flavors of Turkmen food through its iconic dish, Chekdirme . This hearty stew, with a history spanning over a thousand years, is a staple at weddings, celebrations, and gatherings among Turkmen people. Let's delve into the ingredients, preparation, and different variations of this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients for Chekdirme recipe
Traditionally, Chekdirme is prepared using a cast-iron pot known as a kazan which is mainly used to cook Chekdarme. The key ingredients include:
- Meat: Typically, lamb neck is preferred for its succulent flavor.
- Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add a tangy twist.
- Tomato paste
- Onion
- Oil
- rice
- Spices: A blend of salt, pepper, and other aromatic spices.
How to prepare Chekdirme
First, the meat is chopped and fried in some oil in a cast iron pot. In the next step, chopped onion and tomato paste or chopped tomatoes are added and fried well. At this stage, water is added to the mixture so that the mixture cooks well. When the meat is cooked, add rice to it, and if the water is low, add water until about three centimeters of water covers the rice and the mixture, then cover the lid of the container so that the rice can cook well. Another type of chakdarme is cooked in Turkmenistan, in which they use a lot of carrots instead of tomato paste and fresh tomatoes. This type of chakdarme is also cooked in Tajikistan.
Types of Chekdarme
Today, other types of Chekdarme are cooked, which are actually known as new and modern types and are different from the main dish. Types of Chekdarme include:
- Meat Chekdarme, which is cooked with mutton, mainly sheep's neck.
- Stuffed Bird Chekdarme: This type is cooked with various types of birds such as duck, quail, partridge or chicken, with wild duck being considered one of the best and most delicious. In cooking this type of Chekdarme, the bird is stuffed with prunes, carrots, raisins, onions and spices.
- Stuffed Fish Chekdarme: which is stuffed with fish, especially carp, with vegetables. Sometimes, sturgeon and Acipenser or Starry sturgeon are used and it is called "Yahana" in the Turkmen language and is considered one of the most delicious Chekdarme.
- Carrot Chakdarmeh, which uses carrots instead of tomatoes or tomato paste.
Experience Chekdirme in Golestan
If you find yourself in Golestan province, Iran, make sure to savor the authentic taste of Chekdirme. This dish is a must-try for food enthusiasts and travelers seeking an authentic culinary experience. Chekdirme is more than just a dish; it's a cultural treasure that has been passed down through generations. Its unique blend of flavors and versatility make it a beloved meal across Turkmenistan and beyond. If you travel to Golestan Province, be sure to try Chakdarmeh, it's worth. Hoping to see you in Iran, Golestan Province, and try Chakdarmeh. Hoping for that day.
