Pasinda-E-Khaas
Pasinda-E-Khaas is a flavorful Pasinda-style beef dish featuring rich spices, almonds, and creamy yogurt, perfect for those who enjoy hearty, aromatic Pakistani cuisine.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. stew beef ⓘ
- 12 blanched almonds, finely ground
- 1 Tbsp. poppy seeds, finely ground
- 1 tsp. ginger ⓘ
- 1 tsp. garlic
- 1 tsp. green chili paste ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 tsp. cinnamon powder ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. clove powder ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper powder
- 1 tsp. salt
- 2 tsp. gram flour (besan) ⓘ
- 1/4 - 1/2 pkg. Shan Bihari Kabab Masala ⓘ
- 5 to 6 Tbsp. kiwi paste ⓘ
- 2 onions, finely sliced ⓘ
- 3/4 cup oil
- 1/4 cup fresh, thick cream ⓘ
- 1 cup yogurt ⓘ
Instructions
- Cut the stew beef into very thin Pasinda-style slices.
- Wash and drain the meat well.
- Fry the sliced onions in oil until golden.
- Drain the onions on paper towels, let cool, then crush with the back of a spoon.
- Set aside the crushed onions.
- Mix ground almonds, ground poppy seeds, ginger, garlic, green chili paste, cayenne (if using), cinnamon, clove, black pepper, salt, gram flour, Shan Bihari Kabab Masala, and kiwi paste to create the marinade.
- Marinate the beef slices in this mixture for at least 2 hours.
- In a large pot, heat the remaining oil and add the marinated beef.
- Cook on medium heat until the beef is tender and cooked through.
- Stir in the crushed onions, cream, yogurt, and lemon juice.
- Simmer for another 10-15 minutes to blend flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of yogurt and cream to marinate the beef, which helps tenderize while adding creaminess. If you don't have Shan Bihari Kabab Masala, a combination of garam masala and coriander can be a good substitute. Adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice preference, or omit entirely for a milder dish. Make sure to slice the beef very thinly for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with naan or steamed basmati rice to soak up the rich sauce. Consider serving a side of fresh salad or raita to balance the flavors. For a complete meal, you could also offer a vegetable dish like Syrian Green Beans to add a nutritious element to the table.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, heating in short intervals until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasinda-E-Khaas contains roughly 2476 calories, with 13g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 259g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2150mg per serving (93% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, while stew beef is ideal for its tenderness after slow cooking, cuts like flank steak or sirloin can also work. Just ensure they are sliced thinly to achieve the right texture. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as thinner cuts may cook faster.
Is it necessary to marinate the beef for 2 hours?
While marinating for 2 hours enhances flavor and tenderness, you can marinate for a shorter time if you're in a hurry. Even 30 minutes will impart some flavor, but for the best results, aim for the full duration, especially if you want the spices to penetrate well.
What can I serve with Pasinda-E-Khaas?
Pasinda-E-Khaas is delicious with naan or basmati rice. You could also pair it with a side of yogurt sauce or a simple salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a dish like Sauerbraten(Sour Beef) or Berliner Ragout to complement the flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).