Kharcho Megrelian Style (Georgian Beef, Rice, Walnut & Tangy Plum Soup) – Authentic Georgia Recipe

Ingredients for Kharcho Megrelian Style (Georgian Beef, Rice, Walnut & Tangy Plum Soup) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) tender beef cubes, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups short-grain rice, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup ground toasted walnuts
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with tkemali (sour plum sauce) or pomegranate-lemon tang
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Georgia seasoning (khmeli suneli, garlic, fresh cilantro)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and tkemali (sour plum sauce) or pomegranate-lemon tang for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in khmeli suneli, garlic, fresh cilantro and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Georgia's kitchen.
3. Add tender beef cubes and short-grain rice, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
5. Fold in ground toasted walnuts, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.