Shirqovoq: Uzbek Rice Porridge with Pumpkin
There’s something magical about the simplicity of traditional breakfasts. In Uzbekistan, the best morning starts with the aroma of freshly baked non—the iconic Uzbek flatbread—straight out of a tandir, a large clay oven. Pair it with a dollop of qaymoq, fresh thick cream, and your favorite jam, served alongside a steaming cup of strongly brewed black tea, and you have a slice of morning heaven. Yet, our culinary heritage offers so much more, like the warm embrace of a dish lovingly prepared by our mothers and grandmothers.
One such recipe is shirqovoq, a comforting rice porridge with pumpkin that has graced Uzbek breakfast tables for generations. It’s more than just food—it’s a bowl of memories. With its tender rice, vibrant pumpkin, and subtle sweetness, I think shirqovoq is the essence of warmth and nourishment. This dish not only fuels your day but also fills your heart with the flavors of home.
Here’s how to make this easy yet soul-satisfying breakfast dish.
INGREDIENTS
600 ml milk
100 g rice, washed
200 g pumpkin, grated
Salt to taste
Sugar or honey, 1 to 3 teaspoons, or to taste
A dollop of butter for serving (optional)
METHOD
1. Gently warm the milk in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Add the washed rice to the warm (not boiling) milk, stirring well.
3. Bring the milk to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
4. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes on low heat.
5. Add the grated pumpkin, stirring occasionally, and cook until the rice becomes luxuriously soft.
6. Let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes on very low heat.
7. Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and sugar or honey to your taste.
8. Serve the porridge warm with a teaspoon of butter on top for an extra touch of indulgence, if desired.
Enjoy shirqovoq as a wholesome start to your day or as a comforting treat when you crave something simple and nostalgic. It’s a dish that tells a story—one of tradition, family, and the joy of shared meals. Let this recipe bring a little piece of Uzbekistan to your breakfast table!