Shorpo Tien-Shan (Clear Kyrgyz Highland Broth with Potatoes, Carrots & Fresh Herbs) – Authentic Kyrgyzstan Recipe

Ingredients for Shorpo Tien-Shan (Clear Kyrgyz Highland Broth with Potatoes, Carrots & Fresh Herbs) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) simmered beef or lamb, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups large chunks of yellow potato and sweet carrot, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup sweet bell pepper
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with fresh cilantro and dill
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Kyrgyzstan seasoning (black peppercorns, cumin, garlic)
• 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 fresh cilantro and dill for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in black peppercorns, cumin, garlic and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Kyrgyzstan's kitchen.
3. Add simmered beef or lamb and large chunks of yellow potato and sweet carrot, 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 sweet bell pepper, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.