Beef Karahi Recipe
What is Beef Karahi?
For those new to the world of desi cuisine, Beef Karahi is a popular Pakistani and Indian dish known for its deep, rich flavors. Cooked in a traditional karahi (a thick, wok-like pan), this dish is packed with bold spices, juicy beef, and a luscious tomato-based gravy. The secret? The slow-cooked beef that melts in your mouth and a perfect balance of spices that bring out the ultimate taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need 🥩🍅
For the Beef:
- 1 kg beef (preferably boneless, but bone-in adds extra flavor)
- ½ cup cooking oil or ghee
- 2 large onions (finely chopped)
- 6 medium tomatoes (pureed or finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2-3 green chilies (sliced)
- Fresh coriander (chopped, for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
For the Special Karahi Masala:
- 1 teaspoon crushed black pepper
- 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
- ½ teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (Kasuri Methi)
Mastering the Beef Karahi Recipe in 6 Bold and Flavorful Steps! 🔥
Step 1: Heat Things Up!
Heat oil in a large karahi or wok. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Now, toss in the ginger and garlic paste, and cook for about a minute until fragrant. (Careful! This step smells so good, you might get hungry too soon! 😆)
Step 2: The Meat Showdown
Add the beef and cook on high heat, stirring constantly, until it changes color. This seals in the juices and ensures a flavorful bite every time! Cook for about 5-7 minutes, letting the beef get a nice golden sear.
Step 3: Spice it Up! 🌶️
Now comes the fun part! Add salt, red chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, and black pepper. Mix well so the beef is fully coated with these rich spices. Let it cook for another 5 minutes, and enjoy the irresistible aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 4: Tomato Goodness 🍅
Add pureed tomatoes to the beef and give it a good stir. Lower the heat and let the tomatoes break down completely. This will take about 15-20 minutes. Pro tip: Cover the karahi with a lid for extra moisture and deeper flavors.
Step 5: The Slow Simmer Game
Once the tomatoes have blended into a thick, luscious gravy, pour in ½ cup of water and cover the karahi. Let the beef cook on low heat for about 45-50 minutes (or until tender). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If you’re impatient, resist the temptation to peek too often—it’s worth the wait! 😜
Step 6: The Grand Finale! 🎉
Now, let’s bring it all together! Sprinkle the special karahi masala (black pepper, roasted cumin, and dried fenugreek leaves). Add sliced green chilies and give it one final mix. Garnish with fresh coriander, and BOOM—your perfect Beef Karahi is ready! Serve it hot with naan, roti, or rice.
What to Serve with Beef Karahi? 🍽️
Beef Karahi is best enjoyed with a side of fresh naan, butter roti, or steaming hot basmati rice. Want to make it a full meal? Pair it with a cooling raita, a crispy salad, and maybe even a sweet dessert to balance out the spice.
Menu with Prices 📜💰
| Category | Item | Price (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| Appetizers | Chicken Tikka | 450 |
| Mutton Seekh Kebab | 500 | |
| Main Courses | Beef Karahi (Half) | 1,200 |
| Beef Karahi (Full) | 2,200 | |
| Chicken Handi | 1,800 | |
| Desserts | Gulab Jamun (2 pcs) | 250 |
| Kheer | 300 | |
| Beverages | Lassi (Sweet/Salted) | 200 |
| Mint Lemonade | 180 | |
| Chai (Doodh Patti) | 150 |
FAQs About Beef Karahi Recipe ❓
1. How long does it take to cook Beef Karahi? It takes around 1 hour in total. The slow cooking process ensures tender beef and deep flavors.
2. Can I use chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! The method remains the same, but chicken cooks faster (30-35 minutes).
3. What makes Karahi taste authentic? The special blend of spices, fresh tomatoes, and slow cooking give Karahi its signature flavor.
4. Can I add yogurt to my Beef Karahi? Yes! Some people add 2 tablespoons of yogurt for extra creaminess, but it’s optional.
5. What’s the best cut of beef for Karahi? Boneless beef cubes or bone-in pieces (like shin or ribs) work best for maximum flavor.
6. How spicy is Beef Karahi? It’s moderately spicy, but you can adjust the chili levels based on your preference.
Final Thoughts! 🎊
And there you have it—the ultimate Beef Karahi Recipe in just 6 bold steps! Whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or just starting out, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. So, fire up that stove, get your karahi ready, and treat yourself to a meal that’s rich, spicy, and downright delicious! 🍛🔥
P.S. Don’t forget to pair it with some naan and a cold drink—trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
