Beef Nihari is a quintessential dish in Pakistani cuisine, revered for its rich, aromatic flavors and tender meat. Originating from Mughal-era kitchens, Nihari has evolved into a beloved comfort food that warms the soul and brings families together. Traditionally served as a hearty breakfast or brunch, Nihari is a slow-cooked stew that reflects the depth and complexity of Pakistani culinary traditions.

What Makes Beef Nihari Special?

The magic of Beef Nihari lies in its slow-cooked process and the blend of spices that give it a distinctive flavor profile. The dish is characterized by its deep, dark gravy and tender, fall-apart beef. The name “Nihari” is derived from the Arabic word “Nahar,” meaning “day,” as the stew was traditionally eaten in the early morning hours after a night of slow cooking.

Authentic Beef Nihari Recipe

Beef Nihari is a deeply flavorful and aromatic Pakistani stew that showcases the rich culinary traditions of the region. This recipe uses beef shin with bones to create a hearty and satisfying dish, perfect for special occasions or a comforting meal.

Beef Nihari

Ingredients

  • Beef Shin with Bones: 2 kg, cut into large pieces
  • Beef Stock: 1 liter
  • Oil: 1/2 cup
  • Fried Onion Paste: 1 cup
  • Ginger & Garlic Paste: 2 tablespoons
  • Salt: To taste
  • Red Chilli Powder: 1 tablespoon
  • Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder: 1 tablespoon
  • Turmeric Powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Black Pepper Powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Dry Coriander Powder: 1 tablespoon
  • Green Cardamom Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Mace (Javitri): 1/2 teaspoon, crushed
  • Cumin Powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Fennel Seeds Powder: 2 tablespoons
  • Star Anise Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Whole Wheat Flour (Aata): 1/2 cup

Garnish

  • Chopped Green Coriander
  • Chopped Green Chillies
  • Julienne Ginger
  • Fried Onion Slices
  • Lemon Wedges
  • Boiled Eggs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef:
  • Have your butcher cut the beef shin into large pieces.
  1. Make the Onion Masala:
  • Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add ginger & garlic paste and cook, stirring frequently, until it becomes slightly browned.
  • Stir in salt, red chilli powder, Kashmiri red chilli powder, turmeric powder, and fried onion paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes until well blended. Remove from heat and set aside.
  1. Boil the Beef:
  • In a separate large saucepan, bring 3 liters of water to a boil. Add the beef pieces and boil for 10-15 minutes. Skim off any scum that rises to the surface.
Beef Nihari

Combine Ingredients:

  • Add the prepared onion masala, beef stock, and all remaining spices (except the aata) to the beef. Stir well to combine.
  • Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is very tender.
  1. Prepare the Beef:
  • Remove the beef pieces from the pot and separate the meat from the bones. Keep the beef covered to prevent drying out.
  1. Strain the Liquid:
  • Strain the cooking liquid through a muslin cloth to remove any impurities and solid bits.
  1. Reduce the Liquid:
  • Return the strained liquid to the pot and cook over medium heat until it reduces by half, concentrating the flavors.
  1. Thicken the Gravy:
  • In a small bowl, mix the aata (whole wheat flour) with approximately 1 cup of water to create a thin paste.
  • Slowly add this paste to the simmering nihari, stirring continuously until the gravy thickens slightly.
  1. Finish the Dish:
  • Add the cooked beef pieces back into the pot. Reduce the heat to very low, cover, and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  1. Serve:
    • Serve the Beef Nihari hot with naan or khamiri roti. Garnish with chopped green coriander, chopped green chillies, julienne ginger, fried onion slices, and lemon wedges on the side.
Beef Nihari

Tips for Perfect Nihari

  • Slow Cooking: The key to a great Nihari is slow cooking, which allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.
  • Nihari Masala: Using a good-quality Nihari masala or making your own blend can significantly enhance the flavor of the dish.
  • Bone Marrow: Adding bone marrow can enrich the gravy and provide a deeper flavor.

Beef Nihari is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary tradition that brings people together. Whether you’re enjoying it with family on a special occasion or as a comforting meal after a long day, this rich and flavorful stew is sure to become a cherished part of your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the warmth and depth of Beef Nihari and the wonderful aromas that fill your kitchen as it cooks!

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