Uzbek Fruits and Vegetables

In Uzbekistan, thanks to its perfect climate and rich soil, there's an abundance of fruits and veggies grown. These are not just any produce; they're known for their enchanting aromas and outstanding flavors, so much so that many are shipped off to different corners of the globe.

Vegetables

Uzbek veggies are staples in the country's traditional dishes. Take plov, for example, where you can't do without carrots and onions. Or lagman, brimming with more veggies like bell peppers, carrots, onions, cabbage, radishes, and tomatoes than meat. And then there's hanum, with potatoes playing a starring role. Samsa often gets a tasty filling of pumpkin and onions too.

Tomatoes and cucumbers are the stars of the show. Uzbek tomatoes stand out for their juiciness and hint of sweetness, available in a variety from cherry reds to soft pinks, and sizes big and small. For salads, the go-to is the Yusupov tomatoes, hefty ones that can weigh between 300-400 grams. Cucumbers are just as loved, with varieties suited for everything from fresh salads to pickling.

But that's not all; eggplants, zucchinis, both bell and spicy peppers, carrots, onions, potatoes, cabbage, beets, pumpkins, turnips, radishes, and much more also make the list.

Greens are equally essential in Uzbek cooking, thriving across the country. From dill, parsley, cilantro, to celery, lettuce, sorrel, green onions, and garlic - they enhance salads, soups, and main courses. One iconic green-based dish is shivit oshi, a Khorezm specialty featuring green noodles tinted with dill.

Fruits

Uzbek fruits and berries are a taste sensation known far and wide.

Melons and watermelons, ripened under the Uzbek sun, are the country's signature natural treats.

The melon's fragrance is unmistakable; you can catch its sweet scent from a distance, often guiding you to the seller. They say the smell is your first cue in choosing a melon, followed by the state of its stem - it should be dry but not withered. With varieties like Mirzachul, Kukcha, Chilaki, and others, you're spoiled for choice.

Watermelons are a summer staple, with the best ones sounding hollow when tapped, guaranteeing a sweet, juicy bite.

The combination of a chilled melon or watermelon with a hot flatbread is a simple yet profound joy of summer.

Planning a visit to Uzbekistan? Don't miss out on trying locally grown apricots, peaches, cherries, apples, pears, figs, persimmons, mulberries, grapes, quinces, pomegranates, plums, strawberries, lemons, and more. And if you're looking to take a piece of Uzbekistan home, consider packing dried fruits like apricots, raisins, melon, prunes, figs, and apples - they travel well and are just as delicious.