Low Fat Nihari

Experience the rich, aromatic flavors of traditional Nihari without the guilt with this healthier twist—Low Fat Nihari. Made with tender lean beef, fragrant spices, and a velvety gravy thickened using whole wheat flour instead of excess oil, this recipe delivers all the warmth and comfort of the classic dish in a lighter form. The use of low-fat yogurt adds a creamy tang, while a slow-simmering technique ensures deep, authentic flavors with melt-in-your-mouth beef. Garnished with fresh coriander, green chilies, and a squeeze of lemon, this dish is perfect for a wholesome family meal. Serve with naan or steamed rice to complete this flavorful feast. Ideal for those seeking a low-fat yet satisfying version of this iconic Pakistani comfort food.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:180 mins

Total Time:200 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams lean beef (preferably shank or stew meat)
• 2 medium onions, finely sliced
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste
• 3 tablespoons whole wheat flour
• 6 cups water
• 1 cup low-fat yogurt
• 3 tablespoons Nihari masala
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.5 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons coriander leaves, chopped
• 2 green chilies, sliced
• 1 lemon lemon wedges

Directions

Step 1

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

Step 3

Add ginger and garlic pastes, stirring for a couple of minutes until the raw aroma disappears.

Step 4

Add the beef chunks to the pot and sear them until they are browned on all sides.

Step 5

Combine 3 tablespoons Nihari masala, 1.5 teaspoons salt, and 0.5 teaspoon turmeric powder with the beef and mix well.

Step 6

Whisk 1 cup of low-fat yogurt until smooth. Gradually add it to the pot, stirring continuously to prevent curdling.

Step 7

Pour 6 cups of water into the pot, stirring the mixture well. Bring it to a boil.

Step 8

Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Step 9

In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of whole wheat flour with enough water to form a smooth paste.

Step 10

Gradually add this paste to the simmering Nihari while stirring continuously to thicken the gravy. Let it simmer for another 10–15 minutes until the flour is cooked and the gravy reaches a thickened consistency.

Step 11

Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and green chilies.

Step 12

Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side, allowing diners to adjust the tartness to their preference.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2749.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2040.5

Total Fat 109.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 37.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.8g
Cholesterol 416.2mg	0%
Sodium 5883.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 103.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 19.2g	0%
Total Sugars 35.5g
Protein 157.1g	0%

Vitamin D 137.1IU	0%
Calcium 862.2mg	0%
Iron 19.1mg	0%
Potassium 3566.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 48.5%

Protein: 31.0%

Carbs: 20.4%