Ancient Vegan

Here’s a recipe for Lagman, a traditional dish from Central Asia, especially Uzbekistan. This hearty and flavorful dish features hand-pulled noodles topped with a savory stir-fry of vegetables and aromatic spices. 🌿✨

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 1 hour (including noodle preparation)
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Noodles:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup water (adjust as needed)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for coating the dough)

For the Stir-Fry Topping:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 bell pepper, julienned
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp ground coriander
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh dill or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add water and knead until a smooth dough forms (about 8–10 minutes).
2. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each into a long rope, about ¼ inch thick.
4. Coat the ropes with oil and stretch them gently to make thin noodles, about ⅛ inch thick. Let the noodles rest while you prepare the topping.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook for 2–3 minutes until tender.
2. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Toss with a little oil and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Stir-Fry Topping

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add the carrots, bell peppers, and green beans. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
3. Stir in the zucchini and tomatoes. Add paprika, cumin, coriander, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld.

Step 4: Assemble the Lagman

1. Place a portion of noodles in a bowl or plate. Top with the stir-fried vegetables.
2. Garnish with fresh dill or cilantro. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Add protein: Include tofu or tempeh for added protein, or keep it purely vegetable-based.
• Customize veggies: Add seasonal vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms.
• Spicy twist: Stir in chili flakes or serve with chili oil for heat.
• Make it quicker: Use store-bought fresh noodles or spaghetti as a shortcut.

This Lagman recipe brings the flavors of Uzbekistan to your table, blending the warmth of hand-pulled noodles with a vibrant vegetable stir-fry. Enjoy this delicious, comforting dish! 🌿✨