Zharkoye (Жаркое) Recipe – Russian Special
Zharkoye (Жаркое) is a beloved Russian stew that brings together tender chunks of meat, hearty potatoes, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a savory broth. Often enjoyed as a hearty meal during colder months, this dish embodies the essence of comfort food in Russian cuisine. Whether prepared for a family dinner or a festive gathering, Zharkoye offers a satisfying and flavorful experience that warms both the body and soul.
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time1 hr
- Total Time1 hr 15 min
For the Stew:
- 500g beef or pork, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for searing)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for depth)
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Sear the Meat:
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Season the meat chunks with salt and pepper.
Add the meat to the pot in batches, searing until browned on all sides.
Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add chopped onions and cook until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
(Optional) Stir in tomato paste and paprika for richer flavor.
Assemble the Stew:
Return the browned meat to the pot.
Add chopped potatoes, carrots, and bell pepper (if using).
Pour in the broth to cover the ingredients. Add bay leaves.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
Simmer:
Let the stew simmer gently for 45–60 minutes, until the meat is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
If you prefer a thicker stew, mash a few potato pieces into the broth to thicken it naturally.
Serve:
Ladle the Zharkoye into bowls.
Garnish with freshly chopped dill or parsley.
Serve hot with crusty bread, sour cream, or pickles on the side.
Recipe Notes :
Meat Options: While beef is commonly used, pork or a combination of both meats can be substituted for varied flavors.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips to enhance the stew’s depth.
Traditional Cooking Methods: For an authentic touch, consider cooking Zharkoye in a clay pot, which helps retain moisture and infuses the dish with a unique flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the stew hot with a dollop of sour cream and a side of crusty bread or pickles to complement the rich flavors.
