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Lobya

Lobya is a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the rich culinary tradition of Central Asia. This comforting recipe features tender red kidney beans simmered with aromatic spices, tomatoes, and colorful bell peppers, creating a delightful meal that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dried red kidney beans (soaked overnight)
  • 1 large onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 medium tomatoes (diced)
  • 1 cup bell peppers (diced; mix of colors)
  • 2 tsp cumin powder
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Soak the red kidney beans overnight in water. Drain and rinse before use.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Add diced bell peppers and tomatoes, cooking until they soften.
  4. Stir in the soaked beans along with cumin, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour in vegetable broth until all ingredients are submerged.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 45 minutes or until beans are tender, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition

Keywords: For added flavor, toast the cumin powder lightly before adding it to the pot. Customize by using black beans or pinto beans for varied textures. Fresh herbs like cilantro can be added just before serving for a burst of freshness.