French fries—crispy, golden, and utterly satisfying—have long been a beloved dish for many cultures. Within the Bukharian community, fries are equally cherished and known as «Kartoshka Biry’on,» which translates to “fried potatoes”. While not uniquely Bukharian in origin, these fries have found a special place at family gatherings and on the menus of Bukharian restaurants. Reminiscent of the Middle Eastern «Batata Harra,» they are given a flavorful spin with garlic, dill, and a touch of salt, making them an irresistible snack or side dish.
Whether you’re dining out or cooking at home, this simple dish bridges the gap between universal comfort food and the flavors enjoyed by the Bukharian community. Here’s how you can whip up your own plate of “Kartoshka Biry’on” right at home:
Ingredients
- 3 large potatoes
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- A small handful of fresh dill, finely chopped (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- Oil for frying
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes. Hand-cut them into even strips about ¼ inch thick for an ideal crisp-to-soft ratio.
- Prep the Herbs: Finely chop the dill and crush the garlic cloves to infuse maximum flavor.
- Triple-Fry the Potatoes: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer. Fry the potato strips in three stages for four minutes each. First fry: Cook until the potatoes are just softened. Second fry: Cook until they start to develop a light crisp. Final fry: Bring them to a golden-brown perfection.
- Flavor It Up: Toss the hot fries with crushed garlic, chopped dill, and a sprinkle of salt. The heat combines the ingredients into a vibrant, aromatic topping.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the fries warm with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce.
These fries captivate with their delightful crunch and herbaceous garlic-dill twist. They might not be exclusive to Bukharian culture, but their widespread appreciation highlights how timeless recipes can transcend borders and bring people together.
At most Bukharian restaurants, “Kartoshka Biry’on” is a go-to item, often enjoyed alongside hearty main courses or simply as a flavorful snack. The dish may not be inherently Bukharian, but it’s loved for the memories and connections it fosters across generations and cultures.
Try this recipe at home and join in the joy of sharing a dish that’s simple, satisfying, and beloved across many tables. Every bite of this golden delight carries a bit of comfort and a burst of flavor.
Bukharian Bites is a passion-driven initiative aimed at celebrating and sharing the rich culinary heritage of the Bukharian community. Through this project, founder Abe Fuzaylov hopes to connect people with the vibrant flavors, traditions, and stories that make Bukharian Jewish culture unique. The goal is to educate both the younger generation in our community as well as those unfamiliar with Bukharian culture, using the universal language of food. Bukharian Times has been publishing his recipes each English issue, starting with issue 1176.
Avraham Fuzaylov