Awadhi Khaas Nihari: A Hearty Traditional Delight
Awadhi Khaas Nihari, known for its rich, aromatic flavors and tender meat, is a classic dish hailing from the royal kitchens of Awadh, India. Traditionally enjoyed for breakfast, this delectable slow-cooked mutton stew can be the star of any dinner table. With its complex spices and a luscious gravy, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Recipe Overview
| Recipe Name | Awadhi Khaas Nihari |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Awadhi |
| Course | Dinner |
| Diet | Non-Vegetarian |
| Servings | 4 |
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 120 minutes |
| Total Time | 135 minutes |
Ingredients
To create this sumptuous Awadhi Khaas Nihari, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mutton (shanks preferred) | 1 kg |
| Sunflower oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Ginger (crushed) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic (crushed) | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion (sautéed and ground) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curd (Dahi/Yogurt) | 3 tablespoons |
| Rose water | 2 teaspoons |
| Saffron strands (soaked in milk for 10 minutes) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coriander (Dhania) leaves (chopped) | Small bunch |
| Ginger (julienned) | 1-1/2 inches |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) pods/seeds | 4 |
| Cinnamon stick (Dalchini) | 1 inch |
| Black cardamom (Badi Elaichi) | 2 |
| Bay leaves (Tej Patta) | 2 |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Nutmeg powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cardamom powder (Elaichi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Whole wheat flour | 1 cup |
| Water (for dough) | As required |
Instructions
Embark on the culinary journey of preparing Awadhi Khaas Nihari by following these detailed steps:
-
Prepare the Dough
Begin by gradually adding water to the whole wheat flour in a mixing bowl. Knead it into a tight dough, which will be used later to seal the vessel while cooking. Once ready, set the dough aside. -
Sauté the Whole Spices
In a heavy-bottomed wok or pan, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the whole spices: green cardamom, cinnamon stick, black cardamom, and bay leaves. Sauté them for a minute until fragrant, allowing the spices to release their essential oils. -
Cook the Mutton
Add the mutton to the pan and sauté for about 6-7 minutes, ensuring that the meat is well-coated with the aromatic oil and spices. Season the meat with salt and turmeric powder, mixing well to combine. -
Add Water and Simmer
Pour in the water, cover the pan, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the crushed ginger and garlic, along with the ground coriander, red chili powder, and onion paste. Stir to combine all the flavors. -
Incorporate Dairy and Aromatics
Next, introduce the whisked yogurt, rose water, garam masala, nutmeg, cardamom powder, and the saffron-infused milk/water into the pot. Stir well, cover, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. -
Transfer and Seal
Carefully transfer the cooked meat mixture to a broad-based heavy-bottomed vessel or handi. Cover it with a lid and seal it tightly with the prepared wheat dough. This step is crucial as it traps the steam and ensures even cooking. -
Slow Cook
Reduce the heat to low and let the Nihari cook for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking process allows the mutton to become tender and absorb all the aromatic flavors, creating a rich and sumptuous gravy. -
Garnish and Serve
Once the meat is cooked to perfection, garnish the Nihari with freshly chopped coriander leaves and julienned ginger. Serve the Awadhi Khaas Nihari hot, paired beautifully with roomali roti, butter garlic naan, or a bowl of steaming rice.
Serving Suggestions
Awadhi Khaas Nihari is best enjoyed with traditional accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside:
- Roomali Roti: Thin, soft Indian flatbreads that are perfect for scooping up the rich gravy.
- Butter Garlic Naan: Fluffy naan bread, brushed with melted butter and garlic, complementing the flavors of the Nihari.
- Steamed Rice: A simple bowl of fragrant basmati rice serves as a wonderful base for the flavorful stew.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 480 |
| Protein | 36 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
Final Thoughts
Awadhi Khaas Nihari is not just a dish; it is an experience steeped in tradition and rich flavors. The slow-cooked mutton, infused with spices, creates a luxurious dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply enjoying a weekend family dinner, this Nihari will leave your guests raving about its exquisite taste and delightful aroma.
Indulge in this culinary treasure and relish the flavors of Awadh with every bite. Happy cooking!
