Lamb Pilaf (Plov)

Lamb Pilaf, also known as Plov, is a hearty and aromatic rice dish where lamb, rice, carrots, and onions are slow-cooked together with garlic and a blend of warm spices like cumin and coriander. It is a beloved staple and celebratory centerpiece across Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Middle East, with each region boasting its own cherished variations.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This is a well-balanced, calorie-dense meal, providing a substantial mix of carbohydrates from the rice, protein from the lamb, and fats from the meat and cooking oil. A typical serving offers a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, with a rough ballpark of 500-700 calories.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	350 kcal
Protein	18 g
Carbs	40 g
Fat	12 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	600 mg
Potassium	350 mg
Iron	3 mg
Zinc	4 mg
Phosphorus	200 mg
Vitamin B12	2.5 µg
Niacin (B3)	5 mg
Selenium	25 µg
Magnesium	30 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Plov is often the dish of choice for weddings and large gatherings, with the preparation of a massive communal pot considered a skilled art form. Nutritionally, the slow-cooking process allows the rice to absorb the rich, savory broth, making it a complete and satisfying one-pot meal.