Pilau Nyama (Tanzanian Meat Pilau)
A fragrant and flavorful rice dish cooked with tender pieces of meat (beef or lamb), aromatic spices, and often served as a celebratory meal. It's a staple in Tanzanian cuisine, particularly along the coast and in Zanzibar.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Beef or Lamb(cubed into 1-inch pieces)
- 2 cups Basmati Rice(rinsed and drained)
- 2 medium Onions(finely chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 3.5 cups Beef Broth or Water
- 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 1 tsp Whole Cumin Seeds
- 1 tsp Whole Coriander Seeds
- 4 pods Cardamom Pods
- 3 whole Cloves
- 1 inch piece Cinnamon Stick
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
- to taste Salt
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, coriander seeds, cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- 2
Add chopped onions and cook until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Add the cubed meat to the pot and brown it on all sides. This will take about 8-10 minutes.
- 5
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and turmeric powder. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes start to break down.
- 6
Pour in the beef broth or water and bring to a boil. Season with salt to taste. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the meat is tender.
- 7
Add the rinsed basmati rice to the pot. Stir gently to combine. Ensure the liquid level is about 1 inch above the rice. If needed, add a little more water or broth.
- 8
Bring the mixture back to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- 9
Once the rice is cooked, let it steam, covered, off the heat for 5-10 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
- 10
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Rinsing the basmati rice thoroughly is crucial for a fluffy pilau.
- ✓Adjust the amount of spices to your preference. For a spicier pilau, add a pinch of chili powder.
- ✓Ensure the meat is tender before adding the rice. If it's not tender enough, simmer it longer in step 6.
🔄 Variations
- Add a handful of raisins or dried apricots along with the rice for a touch of sweetness.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth, adding vegetables like carrots, peas, and potatoes.
- Some recipes include a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer color and flavor.