Nihari is an extremely flavorful traditional Indian dish that derives its name from the Arabic word “Nahar,” which means “day.” It was traditionally prepared after the Fajr prayer (before dawn) and simmered for several hours, making it a delicious meal to start the day. It primarily consists of meat, usually beef or lamb, slowly simmered with marrow bones. This authentic Nihari recipe will allow you to recreate this rich-flavored dish at home.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 500g of beef or lamb
- 2 tablespoons of clarified butter (ghee)
- 2 chopped onions
- 1 tablespoon of chopped ginger
- 1 tablespoon of chopped garlic
- 2 tablespoons of Nihari powder (available in Indian grocery stores)
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric
- Salt to taste
- 2 liters of water
- Lemon, coriander, and fresh ginger for garnish
Preparation
Begin by heating the ghee in a large pot. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden. Then add the chopped ginger and garlic, and continue to sauté for another minute.
Next, add the meat and sauté until it changes color. Add the Nihari powder, turmeric, salt, and mix well so that the meat is thoroughly coated with all the spices.
Then add the water, cover the pot, and let it simmer on low heat for about 4 to 6 hours. The longer you let it simmer, the more tender the meat will become.
How to enjoy Nihari
Once your Nihari is ready, serve it hot, garnished with fresh coriander, slices of lemon, and fresh ginger. It is traditionally enjoyed with naan (Indian bread) or basmati rice. Don’t forget to accompany it with a good chai tea for an authentic Indian dining experience.
Nihari is a dish that improves with time, so feel free to prepare it the day before and reheat it just before serving.
Conclusion
Now you know how to prepare an authentic Indian Nihari at home. This rich and flavorful dish is perfect for a family meal or among friends. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of meat or spices to give it your own twist.
Remember that preparing authentic dishes requires quality kitchen utensils. Feel free to visit our shop to discover our selection of kitchen utensils that will help you prepare delicious meals.
