Pakistani Anjeeri Beef
A rich and flavorful beef curry where tender pieces of beef are slow-cooked in a sauce infused with the sweetness of dried figs (anjeer), balanced with aromatic Pakistani spices. This dish offers a unique sweet and savory profile, often enjoyed with roti or naan.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Beef(boneless, cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 150 g Dried figs (Anjeer)(halved or quartered)
- 2 large Onions(finely chopped)
- 400 g Tomatoes(pureed)
- 2 tbsp Ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 cup Yogurt(plain)
- 4 tbsp Ghee or cooking oil
- 2 tsp Coriander powder
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Red chili powder(or to taste)
- 1 tsp Garam masala
- to taste Salt
- 2 cups Water(or as needed)
- for garnish Fresh cilantro
- for garnish julienned Fresh ginger
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- 2
Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides.
- 4
Stir in the tomato puree, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 5
In a separate bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth. Add the whisked yogurt to the pot, stirring continuously to prevent curdling. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- 6
Add the dried figs and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the figs have softened.
- 7
Stir in the garam masala. Cook for another 5-10 minutes, uncovered, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- 8
Garnish with fresh cilantro and julienned ginger before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the beef is tender before serving; adjust simmering time as needed.
- ✓If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little hot water.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can marinate the beef in yogurt and spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a few whole dried apricots along with the figs for added sweetness and texture.
- For a spicier version, increase the red chili powder or add a green chili.