Turkish Beef Karahi Recipe

Ingredients

 

For the Beef:

• 1 kg beef (chuck roast or shoulder), cut into medium chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Karahi Base:

• 3 tbsp ghee or olive oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 3-4 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 2 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder
• 1/4 tsp cloves powder
• Salt to taste

For Garnish & Finishing:

• 2 green chilies, julienned
• 1 inch ginger, julienned
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Heat 2 tbsp oil in your karahi or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat
2. Season beef chunks with salt and pepper
3. Brown the beef pieces on all sides (about 8-10 minutes total)
4. Remove beef and set aside

Step 2: Make the Base

1. In the same karahi, add ghee and heat over medium heat
2. Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown (12-15 minutes)
3. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant
4. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down (8-10 minutes)

Step 3: Add Spices

1. Add all the ground spices (chili powder, turmeric, coriander, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, cloves)
2. Cook the spice mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly
3. If mixture looks dry, add tomato paste and a splash of water

Step 4: Cook the Karahi

1. Return the browned beef to the karahi
2. Mix well to coat with the spice mixture
3. Add 1 cup hot water (enough to barely cover the meat)
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low
5. Cover and simmer for 1.5-2 hours until beef is tender
6. Stir occasionally and add water if needed

Step 5: Final Touches

1. When beef is tender, increase heat to medium-high
2. Cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes to reduce the sauce
3. The oil should start separating from the mixture
4. Add garam masala and mix well
5. Taste and adjust salt and spices

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with julienned green chilies and ginger
2. Sprinkle fresh coriander leaves on top
3. Serve hot with naan, roti, or basmati rice

Cooking Tips

• Tender Meat: Don't rush the cooking process. Low and slow cooking ensures tender beef
• Oil Separation: The dish is ready when you see oil separating around the edges
• Spice Level: Adjust red chili powder according to your heat preference
• Consistency: The final dish should have a thick, clinging sauce, not too watery
• Fresh Aromatics: Add fresh ginger and green chilies at the end for bright flavor

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm naan bread or chapati
• Pair with fragrant basmati rice
• Add a side of fresh salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and onions
• Serve with yogurt raita to balance the spices

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Serves: 4-6 people

Bismillah - Enjoy your homemade Turkish Beef Karahi!