Classic Beef Nihari Recipe – A Hearty Pakistani Delight 2024

Hey food lovers! Ever wondered what pure comfort tastes like? Enter Nihari Recipe, Nihari is a rich, slow-cooked stew made with tender beef, aromatic spices, and a whole lot of love. It’s a traditional Pakistani dish that’s famous for its deep, flavorful broth and melt-in-your-mouth meat. How to say it? No worries! It’s pronounced like “nee-ha-ree” and it Tastes Like, Picture this: a burst of spices dancing on your taste buds, tender meat falling apart, and a broth so rich it warms your soul. That’s Nihari for you.

Beef Nihari Recipe
Beef Nihari Recipe

Nihari Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 kg beef, preferably with bone marrow
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons Nihari masala
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1/4 cup wheat flour
  • 8 cups water
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh ginger slices and coriander leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Nihari Recipe Guide:

Step-by-Step Nihari Recipe Guide
Step-by-Step Nihari Recipe Guide

1. Sizzle and Brown:

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add thinly sliced onions and sauté until they turn a beautiful golden brown color. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
  • Introduce 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste into the mix and sauté for an additional minute until the kitchen is filled with a delightful aroma.
  • Add 1 kg of beef (preferably with bone marrow) to the pot. Sear the meat on all sides until it turns brown, locking in those savory flavors.

2. Spice it Up:

  • Stir in 3 tablespoons of Nihari masala. Allow the spices to coat the meat evenly, creating a fragrant base for your Nihari.

3. Flour Power:

  • Sprinkle 1/4 cup of wheat flour over the meat and spice mixture. Give it a good stir, ensuring that the flour is well-distributed and coats the meat.

4. Let it Simmer:

  • Pour in 8 cups of water into the pot, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
  • Season with salt to taste.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot, and let it simmer for a minimum of 4-5 hours. The low and slow cooking process is the secret to tender, flavorful Nihari. Be patient; it’s worth it!

5. Serve the Love:

  • Once the Nihari has simmered to perfection, it’s time to serve. Ladle the steaming hot Nihari into bowls.
  • Garnish each serving with fresh ginger slices and coriander leaves for that final touch of freshness.

6. Storage:

  • If there are leftovers (which is a rare occurrence!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze Nihari for future cravings.

Additional Tips:

  • If Nihari masala is not readily available, check your local Pakistani or Indian grocery store.
  • Remember, the longer it simmers, the better it gets. Let those flavors mingle and dance to create the perfect Nihari experience.

Yield, Prep Time and Calories

  • Yield: This Nihari recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or to share with friends.
  • Prep Time: The preparation time for this Nihari recipe is around 20 minutes. However, keep in mind that the slow-cooking process takes 4-5 hours, so plan accordingly.
  • Calories: The calorie count per serving of this Beef Nihari can vary based on factors such as the cut of meat used and the amount of fat trimmed. On average, each serving is estimated to be around 300-350 calories.
MetricValue
YieldApproximately 6 servings
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time4-5 hours (slow-cooking process)
Calories300-350 calories per serving (approx)
Yield, Prep Time and Calories of Nihari Recipe

What to Serve with Nihari

What to Serve with Nihari
What to Serve with Nihari
  1. Naan or Roti: Soft, pillowy naan or warm roti is a classic choice. The combination of the tender meat with the bread’s texture is unbeatable.
  2. Steamed Rice: For a simpler side, serve your Nihari with fluffy steamed rice. The rice soaks up the flavorful broth, creating a delightful blend of tastes.
  3. Crusty Bread: If you’re a bread enthusiast, consider pairing Nihari with crusty bread. The crunch of the bread complements the stew’s tenderness.
  4. Lemon Wedges: Enhance the flavor with a squeeze of fresh lemon. The citrusy kick adds brightness to the rich and savory Nihari.
  5. Chopped Green Chilies and Ginger: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, serve Nihari with chopped green chilies and ginger. These add a spicy and refreshing element to each bite.
  6. Yogurt Raita: A cool yogurt raita with a hint of mint is a refreshing contrast to the warm and spicy Nihari. It balances the richness of the dish.
  7. Fried Onions: Top your Nihari recipe with crispy fried onions. They add a delightful crunch and a sweet, caramelized flavor.
  8. Fresh Coriander Leaves: Garnish your Nihari with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness. It adds a fragrant note to the dish.

Enjoy your homemade Beef Nihari recipe! This slow-cooked masterpiece is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

You Might Also Like: Spicy Chicken Biryani Recipe

FAQs

What is Nihari?

Nihari is a slow-cooked Pakistani stew made with tender beef, aromatic spices, and a rich, flavorful broth. It’s a popular comfort food, often enjoyed for its hearty and soul-satisfying qualities.

How do you pronounce Nihari?

It’s pronounced as “nee-ha-ree.” Just say it with confidence, and you’re good to go!

What does Nihari taste like?

Nihari is a burst of spices, tender meat, and a rich, savory broth. The flavors are deep, aromatic, and create a symphony in your mouth. It’s the epitome of comfort in every bite.

Where can I find Nihari masala?

Nihari recipe masala is usually available at Pakistani or Indian grocery stores. If you can’t find it, you can also make it at home using a blend of spices like coriander, cumin, fennel, and garam masala.

Can I use a different cut of meat?

While bone-in beef adds richness to the broth, you can use boneless beef if preferred. Choose a cut with some fat for enhanced flavor.

Can I make Nihari in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After browning the meat and sautéing the onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is tender.

What should I serve with Nihari?

Nihari pairs well with naan, roti, steamed rice, or crusty bread. Some people also enjoy it with a squeeze of fresh lemon or a side of yogurt raita.

How do I store leftover Nihari?

Store leftover Nihari in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Alternatively, freeze it for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I make Nihari in advance?

Absolutely! Nihari tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Prepare it in advance and reheat when ready to serve.

Any tips for making the perfect Nihari?

Patience is key! Let it simmer low and slow for the best results. If you can’t find Nihari masala, try making your own spice blend with coriander, cumin, fennel, and garam masala. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes, so don’t rush the process. Enjoy the cooking journey!

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