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Nihari recipe presentation
Dinner

Nihari

Nihari is a slow-cooked, flavorful stew that originates from the Indian subcontinent, traditionally enjoyed as a breakfast dish. This hearty meat dish, enriched with spices and served with naan or rice, warms the soul and makes for a perfect hearty meal any time of the day.

4.5(297 reviews)

Ingredients

  • 1 kg beef shank or leg, cut into pieces
  • 1/4 cup ghee or oil
  • 2 large onions, finely sliced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon Nihari spice mix (or a mix of cumin, coriander, and garam masala)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/4 cup wheat flour (for thickening)
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
  • Ginger, julienned (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Naan or steamed rice (for serving)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat ghee or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.

  2. 2

    Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Stir in the beef pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides.

  4. 4

    Add salt, Nihari spice mix, red chili powder, and turmeric powder. Mix well to coat the meat with spices.

  5. 5

    Pour in the water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 6-8 hours (or use a pressure cooker for 1-2 hours until tender).

  6. 6

    Once the meat is tender, mix wheat flour with a little water to form a smooth paste and add it to the pot to thicken the gravy.

  7. 7

    Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent lumps.

  8. 8

    Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander and julienned ginger, alongside naan or rice and lemon wedges.

Quick Info

Prep Time

30 min

Cook Time

360 min

Servings

4

Difficulty

Hard

Nutrition Facts

Per serving

Calories550
Protein45g
Carbs35g
Fat30g

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