If you want to try something new, special, flavourful, and a nutritious dish, there is no better dish than Pakistani “Haleem”. Over centuries, it has been a cherished, flavourful, and comforting Pakistani dish. It is also a traditional treat enjoyed during several Pakistani occasions, such as Eid,weddings, and many more. It is also a popular choice for everyday meals due to its nutritional value and comforting taste.
Heritage of Amazing Haleem
The word haleem originates from the word “harees,” which is a similar dish of wheat, lentils, and meat. It has its roots in the Arab world. It was introduced in the South Asian region during the Mughal period. With the use of regional spices and flavours, it developed into a distinctive Pakistani treat throughout time. The dish’s amazing nature and comforting taste have made it quite popular among people of all ages, due to which it has become an integral part of the Pakistani culinary landscape.
Ingredients
whole wheat 1 cup
brown lentils 1 cup
mutton or beef, chopped 1 pound
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups water
Key Spices
ginger, grated 1 tablespoon
black pepper 1 tablespoon
cumin powder 1 tablespoon
coriander powder 1 tablespoon
turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon
red chilli powder 1/2 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Step-by-step guide to Making Haleem
Prep the Grains
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- Soak the wheat and lentils in the water for at least 3-5 hours or overnight if possible for a smoother and more beautiful texture.
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- Rinse soaked grains properly and add them to the pot.
Cook the Meat
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- Cook the meat over medium-high heat to develop a rich flavour until it turns brown.
- Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the pot and cook until the onions turn brown, stirring occasionally.
Let it boil gently
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- Add soaked grains, spices, browned meat, onions, and water to the pot.
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- Boil the mixture over high heat.
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- Reduce the heat to low and cover it until the meat is tender and the grains are mushy and soft.
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- Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Blend
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- Transfer the mixture to a blender once the ingredients are ready.
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- Blend the mixture until it reaches a creamy and smooth consistency.
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- Add a little water if necessary.
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- Return the mixture to the pot.
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- Add spices (black pepper, salt, and any additional if you want) and simmer it for another
10-15 minutes till flavours meld.
- Add spices (black pepper, salt, and any additional if you want) and simmer it for another
Serve Hot
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- Garnish it with fried onions, lemon, and fresh coriander.
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- Serve hot with roti, naan, or paratha.
Tips to make perfect Haleem
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- Choose the right meat.
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- Soak the grains properly.
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- Control the heat.
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- Blend smoothly.
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- Season to taste.
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- Serve Hot.
Best Places to eat
If you want to try it in Pakistan, you should visit Hashim Haleem in Faisalabad or Haleem Ghar in Islamabad. These places are good enough to fill your mouth with amazing and juicy flavours.