How to Make Authentic Beef Tehari: A Bangladeshi Delight
If you're a fan of aromatic rice dishes bursting with flavor, Beef Tehari is a recipe you must try. This Bangladeshi classic combines tender, spiced beef with fragrant basmati rice, creating a meal that's perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners.
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make this hearty and delicious dish at home.
What is Beef Tehari?
Tehari, sometimes referred to as the cousin of biryani, is a popular dish in Bangladeshi cuisine. Unlike biryani, Tehari uses fewer spices, but its simplicity is what makes it truly special. Beef Tehari has a rich, aromatic flavor and is often served with fried onions and green chilies for an extra burst of taste.
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need:
For the Beef:
- Beef (with bone): 500 grams (cut into small pieces)
- Yogurt: ½ cup
- Onions: 2 large, thinly sliced
- Ginger paste: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic paste: 1 tablespoon
- Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
- Coriander powder: 1 teaspoon
- Cumin powder: 1 teaspoon
- Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Garam masala powder: ½ teaspoon
- Bay leaves: 2
- Green cardamom: 3-4 pods
- Cinnamon stick: 1 small piece
- Cloves: 3-4
- Mustard oil or vegetable oil: ½ cup
- Salt: to taste
For the Rice:
- Basmati rice: 2 cups
- Water: 4 cups
- Bay leaves: 1-2
- Green cardamom: 2-3 pods
- Cinnamon stick: 1 small piece
- Salt: to taste
- Ghee: 2 tablespoons
Garnish:
- Fried onions: ¼ cup
- Green chilies: 3-4 (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
Start by heating oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the bay leaves, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, letting their aromas bloom. Next, toss in the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
Stir in the ginger and garlic paste, followed by the powdered spices. Let this cook for a minute before adding the beef pieces. Sear the beef until it’s browned and coated in the spice mixture.
Mix in the yogurt and cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. Add salt and a cup of water, cover the pan, and let the beef simmer until tender. Keep an eye on it, adding water if needed to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Rice
Wash the rice thoroughly and soak it for 20 minutes. Drain and set aside. Heat ghee in a large pot, adding bay leaves, cardamom, and cinnamon. Once aromatic, add the rice and fry for a couple of minutes.
Pour in water, season with salt, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice cook until 90% done. The rice should be firm but tender.
3. Layer and Dum Cooking
To assemble the Tehari, layer the cooked beef curry over the partially cooked rice in the pot. Sprinkle fried onions and green chilies on top for added flavor. Cover the pot tightly and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes. This "dum" process melds the flavors together beautifully.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, gently fluff the rice with a fork. Serve your Beef Tehari hot, garnished with more fried onions or fresh herbs if desired. Pair it with a refreshing cucumber raita, a side salad, or some tangy pickles.
Pro Tips for Perfect Beef Tehari
- Use basmati rice for the best texture and aroma.
- Let the beef cook slowly to ensure it’s tender and infused with the spices.
- For extra depth of flavor, you can cook the rice in the beef stock instead of plain water.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Beef Tehari is not just a meal; it's an experience. The blend of spices, tender beef, and fragrant rice creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Whether you're hosting guests or simply treating your family, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
So, roll up your sleeves and bring a taste of Bangladesh into your kitchen. You won’t regret it!
Image Source: Royal Bengal Group
