Mutton Nalli Nihari

Mutton Nalli Nihari

Nalli Nihari  is a National Dish of our neighbor Pakistan. Do you why the recipe calls Nalli Nihari? The word Nihari is derived from the term 'Nihar' which means 'morning after sunrise'. The term ‘Nihari’ is used as a prefix to denote that the curry is usually served as a meal after the Muslim sunrise (Fajr) prayers which is followed by a long rest before going off to the afternoon (Zhuhr) prayers. Traditionally Nihari was cooked overnight and then served to the Kings of Delhi in breakfast after the morning prayers during the Mughal times. Nihari was prepared with either beef or mutton although the leg of lamb is more popularly served today.
Ingredients

Lamb Leg Pieces 750 grams
Nihari Masala 2 tablespoons
Onions sliced 2 medium
Fried onions 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Lamb stock 2 cup
Whole wheat flour (atta) 1 tablespoons
Lemon juice 1 teaspoon
Ginger cut into thin strips 1/2 inch piece
Fresh coriander leaves chopped 2 tablespoons for garnishing (optional)

Nihari masala

Nihari masala is nothing but roasted spices(In Bengali it’s call Bhaja Masal- is a unique Bengali spice blend).  To make the nihari masala, dry roast cumin seeds, green and black cardamom, cloves, mace, fennel seeds, black peppercorns, red chillies, cinnamon, poppy seeds, nutmeg, ginger powder and bay leaf in a non-stick pan and Grind the roasted spices along with roasted chana dal powder.

Method

Step 1

Heat the ghee in a deep non-stick pan. Add the onions and sauté till well browned. Add the lamb and two tablespoons nihari masala and sauté for minimum 10 minutes. Add water 8 cups or as required, fried onions and salt. Cook for minimum forty five minutes or till the lamb is soft. Add the mutton stock and the remaining nihari masala and mix well.

Step 2

Mix whole wheat flour with water in a small bowl, ensuring that there are no lumps. Add this to the lamb and continue to simmer till the gravy thickens. Sprinkle the lemon juice, garnish with the ginger strips and coriander leaves and serve hot.