πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Ώ Uzbek Cuisine

Achichuk

Tomato and Onion Salad

Prep Time 10 min
Servings 4
Difficulty Easy
Calories 57 kcal

A vibrant, razor-sharp salad of ripe tomatoes and thinly sliced onions dressed with nothing more than salt and a scattering of fresh basil, served alongside every plov.

Ingredients

  • 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
  • 2 white onions, very thinly sliced
  • 1 bunch fresh basil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Half tsp black pepper
  • 1 fresh hot chili pepper, sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1 Slice the onions paper-thin using a very sharp knife, then soak in ice water for five minutes to mellow the harsh raw bite.
  2. 2 Cut ripe tomatoes into thin half-moon slices, discarding any tough core parts to ensure every piece is juicy and tender.
  3. 3 Drain the onions well and pat dry, then arrange alternating layers of tomato and onion slices on a flat serving plate.
  4. 4 Season generously with salt and black pepper, allowing the salt to draw out the natural juices from the ripe tomatoes.
  5. 5 Scatter torn fresh basil leaves and optional sliced chili pepper across the top for color and a burst of herbal fragrance.
  6. 6 Let the salad rest for five minutes before serving so the flavors meld β€” the tomato juices become a natural light dressing.

Did You Know?

No Uzbek plov is considered complete without a plate of achichuk beside it β€” the fresh acidity cuts through the rich rice and lamb perfectly.

From The Culinary Codex — http://theculinarycodex.com/dish/uzbek/achichuk/