Piti

4/1/2025

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 2 hours

Description

Piti is a flavorful, hearty soup popular in Azerbaijani cuisine and several Central Asian countries. It’s traditionally slow-cooked in individual clay pots, with chunks of mutton, chickpeas, and an array of spices. The flavors are complex, with a perfect balance between meaty, spicy, and slightly tart.

Ingredients

• 500g mutton, cubed
• 1/2 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, crushed
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 quinces (optional)
• 1 tsp saffron threads
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 liters water

Optional Ingredients

• 1 tsp turmeric: lends a warm, slightly bitter taste that complements the other flavors in the soup.
• 1/2 cup dried apricots: adds a touch of sweetness that balances out the hearty, savory flavors.
• Fresh coriander: adds a fresh, slightly citrusy note and enhances the overall flavor.

Estimated Time

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 2 hours

Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a large pot, then add the mutton and brown well on all sides.
2. Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pot and continue to cook until softened, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and saffron threads, then add the chickpeas, water, and quinces if using. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover the pot and simmer for about 2 hours, until the meat is tender and the flavors are well integrated.
5. If using the optional ingredients, stir in the turmeric and dried apricots in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh coriander if desired.

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