Afghan Savory Sticky Rice (Shola)

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Afghan Savory Sticky Rice, or Shola, a beloved one-pot dish that combines tender basmati rice, protein-packed mung beans, and succulent pieces of beef or lamb. Infused with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, this creamy and hearty rice dish is simmered in a flavorful broth until perfectly sticky and rich. Topped with a vibrant garnish of fresh cilantro and mint, Shola is a traditional Afghan comfort food that’s as nourishing as it is satisfying. With its balanced blend of spices and textures, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or special gatherings. Whether you’re exploring Afghan cuisine for the first time or revisiting a classic, Shola is sure to become a favorite on your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:110 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups basmati rice
• 0.75 cups mung beans
• 1 pound beef or lamb (cubed)
• 1 large onion
• 3 pieces garlic cloves
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 0.5 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups chicken or beef broth
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro
• 0.25 cup fresh mint

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, rinse the mung beans thoroughly. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.

Step 4

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 5

Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6

Introduce the cubed meat into the pot and cook until well-browned on all sides, around 6-8 minutes.

Step 7

Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Cook for another 3 minutes to allow the spices to become aromatic.

Step 8

Add the mung beans to the pot and stir to combine with the meat and spices.

Step 9

Pour in the chicken or beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes or until the mung beans start to soften.

Step 10

Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pot, stir well, and ensure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid. You may add a bit more water if necessary.

Step 11

Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 12

Check for seasoning and add salt if needed.

Step 13

Once the rice and mung beans are fully cooked and the mixture is creamy and sticky, turn off the heat.

Step 14

Finely chop the fresh cilantro and mint and sprinkle them over the shola before serving.

Step 15

Serve hot and enjoy this hearty Afghan delight!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2122.6 grams (2122.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2235

Total Fat 144.00g	185%
Saturated Fat 44.20g	221%
Polyunsaturated Fat 29.00g
Cholesterol 363mg	121%
Sodium 6447mg	280%
Total Carbohydrate 132.30g	48%
Dietary Fiber 16.20g	58%
Total Sugars 14.40g
Protein 107.20g	214%

Vitamin D 32IU	159%
Calcium 271mg	21%
Iron 23mg	127%
Potassium 2352mg	50%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 57.5%

Protein: 19.0%

Carbs: 23.5%