Lobio

Lobio: Classic Georgian Bean Recipe

Lobio is one of the most popular and beloved dishes of Georgian cuisine. It is a flavorful and hearty dish made from beans, cooked with traditional Georgian spices and seasonings. Lobio can be served hot or cold and pairs well with potatoes, rice, or fresh bread. Cook Lobio using our recipe and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Georgian hospitality and taste.

Recipe for Lobio:

Ingredients:

• 500g beans (red or white beans work best)
• 1 large onion
• 3 cloves of garlic
• Bunch of cilantro (can be substituted with parsley)
• 1 tsp utskho-suneli (Georgian spice blend)
• 1 tsp ground red paprika
• Salt to taste
• Ground black pepper to taste
• Sunflower oil for frying

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the beans:

   • Soak the beans in water for several hours or preferably overnight.
   • After soaking, rinse the beans and transfer them to a saucepan.
   • Cover the beans with fresh water.
   • Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer the beans over medium heat until tender (about 1-1.5 hours). The beans should be soft but not falling apart.
   • Drain the beans in a colander and let them drain.

2. Preparing the filling:

   • Finely chop the onion and garlic.
   • Heat a skillet with a small amount of sunflower oil.
   • Sauté the onion until soft and golden, then add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute more.
   • Add utskho-suneli and ground red paprika to the skillet, stir.
   • Add the cooked beans to the skillet, mix with onions and spices, cook for another 5-7 minutes over medium heat to combine all the flavors.
   • Optionally, you can mash some of the beans during cooking to achieve a creamier consistency.

3. Serving:

   • Serve the cooked Lobio hot, sprinkled with finely chopped cilantro or parsley on top.

Tips and recommendations:

• Choosing beans: Red or white beans work best for Lobio. You can use either fresh or dried beans.
• Georgian spices: Utskho-suneli is a blend of Georgian spices that gives the dish a unique flavor and aroma. If you don't have utskho-suneli, you can replace it with a mixture of turmeric, coriander, cilantro, and cumin.
• Serving: Lobio pairs well with potatoes, rice, or fresh bread. It can be served hot or cold, as a main dish or a side.

In conclusion:

Lobio is not only a delicious but also a healthy dish that allows you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Georgian cuisine and enjoy its rich taste and aroma. Cook Lobio using our recipe and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful Georgian delicacy!