Chashushuli Recipe: Authentic Georgian Stew Made Easy

If you’ve ever craved a dish that bursts with rich flavors, tender meat, and a comforting warmth that feels like a hug on a plate, then Chashushuli is your next culinary adventure. This traditional Georgian stew, made primarily with succulent beef and a vibrant tomato base, is a beloved comfort food that combines a wonderful balance of spices and fresh herbs.

Perfect for chilly evenings or a hearty family dinner, chashushuli promises to fill your kitchen with enticing aromas and your table with happiness. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a passionate beginner, this recipe will guide you through every step to create a dish that’s both authentic and satisfying.

In a spot on your regular meal rotation, break down the ingredients, go through the equipment needed, and provide detailed instructions. Plus, you’ll find helpful tips, nutrition insights, and serving suggestions to elevate your experience even further.

Ready to dive into the world of Georgian cuisine? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chashushuli is a stew that stands out for its simplicity and depth of flavor. The tender chunks of beef slow-cooked in a tomato and spice sauce create a delicious synergy that’s both comforting and exciting.

This dish is:

• Rich and hearty: Perfect for satisfying hunger on a cold day or after a long week.
• Full of authentic Georgian flavors: The blend of fresh herbs and spices creates a unique taste profile.
• Versatile: Great served over rice, with bread, or alongside roasted vegetables.
• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, you can master it at home.
• Impressively aromatic: The slow simmering process fills your kitchen with irresistible scents.

For anyone looking to expand their stew repertoire or explore Georgian cuisine, chashushuli is a must-try recipe that you’ll come back to again and again.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (sunflower or olive oil works well)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves (optional but authentic)
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish
• 1 bay leaf

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven – ideal for even heat distribution
• Sharp knife for chopping vegetables and meat
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Small bowl for mixing tomato paste

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Pat the beef pieces dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps in better browning.
2. Heat the oil: In your large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Brown the meat: Add the beef pieces in a single layer and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Avoid crowding the pan; do this in batches if necessary. Remove the beef and set aside.
4. Sauté the onions and garlic: Lower the heat to medium. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add the bell pepper: Stir in the diced red bell pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
6. Incorporate spices and tomato paste: Add ground coriander, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, and dried fenugreek leaves. Stir well to coat the vegetables with spices. Then, add the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to deepen the flavor.
7. Add tomatoes and beef broth: Pour in the chopped fresh tomatoes (or crushed canned tomatoes) and the beef broth or water. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer.
8. Return beef and add bay leaf: Place the browned beef pieces back into the pot along with the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Simmer the stew: Cover the pot partially and reduce the heat to low. Let the stew simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
10. Final season and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For a richer flavor, marinate the beef in a mixture of garlic, paprika, and a splash of red wine for a few hours before cooking.”

• Use beef chuck for the best texture as it becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 20 minutes of cooking to let the liquid reduce.
• Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth if you want a lighter variation.
• For a smoky twist, add a small amount of smoked paprika or a chipotle pepper.
• Want to try a vegetarian version? Check out our All Natural Veggie Soup Recipe for hearty plant-based options.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

Chashushuli is traditionally served hot and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to complete your meal:

• Fresh crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up the luscious tomato broth.
• Steamed rice or pilaf: Absorbs the sauce and balances the spicy flavors.
• Mashed potatoes: A creamy base that complements the robust stew.
• Roasted or grilled vegetables: Adds texture and freshness to the plate.

For more ideas on sides and snack recipes, explore our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or our Best Vegan Kale Dip Recipe for Easy Healthy Snacking.

Conclusion

Chashushuli is more than just a stew; it’s a celebration of Georgian culinary tradition that brings together simple ingredients to create a deeply satisfying experience. This recipe allows you to introduce your family and friends to the warm, hearty flavors of the Caucasus region right from your own kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or planning a special dinner, chashushuli offers comfort, taste, and a touch of exotic charm.

With easy-to-follow steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll find making chashushuli both enjoyable and rewarding. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spices and herbs to make it your own.

For more delicious and diverse recipes to expand your cooking horizons, check out our Best Vegetable Curry Recipe for Rice That Tastes Amazing and our Vegan Dinners Recipes for Easy and Delicious Meals.

Happy cooking!

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