Low Sodium Nihari

Experience the deep, authentic flavors of traditional South Asian cuisine with this Low Sodium Nihari, a healthier twist on the beloved classic. Tender beef shank is slow-cooked to perfection in a medley of aromatic spices, including turmeric, cardamom, and star anise, creating a rich, velvety gravy that’s thickened naturally with whole wheat flour. By reducing the salt yet maintaining the hallmark spices, this recipe offers a heart-healthy take on nihari without compromising on taste. Garnished with fresh cilantro, julienned ginger, and a squeeze of citrus, this dish is perfect for savoring alongside warm naan or steamed rice. With its vibrant flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this low sodium nihari is a must-try for anyone seeking a wholesome yet indulgent meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 79/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:240 mins

Total Time:260 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef shank
• 2 medium, thinly sliced onion
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 3 tablespoons whole wheat flour
• 8 cups water
• 4 tablespoons neutral oil (such as canola or vegetable)
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 5 whole green cardamom pods
• 5 whole cloves
• 1 3-inch piece cinnamon stick
• 2 whole bay leaves
• 1 whole star anise
• 0.5 cup, chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons, julienned fresh ginger
• 1 sliced for garnish lemon or lime

Directions

Step 1

Heat the oil in a large heavy-bottom pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.

Step 2

Add the ginger-garlic paste to the onions and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the beef shank pieces and sear them for about 5 minutes on each side until browned.

Step 4

Stir in the ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, red chili powder, and black pepper until the meat is well-coated with spices.

Step 5

Tie the cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, bay leaves, and star anise in a small piece of cheesecloth to create a bouquet garni, and add to the pot.

Step 6

Pour in the water, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer the stew for 3 to 3.5 hours until the meat is tender and the flavors are well developed.

Step 7

In a small bowl, mix the whole wheat flour with enough water to create a smooth paste. Stir this paste into the pot to thicken the gravy. Cook for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 8

Once the meat is tender and the gravy has thickened, remove the bouquet garni from the pot.

Step 9

Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves, julienned ginger, and lemon or lime slices before serving.

Step 10

Serve hot with naan or rice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(3326.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2371.0

Total Fat 105.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 21.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 747.1mg	0%
Sodium 777.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 86.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 21.1g	0%
Total Sugars 16.7g
Protein 290.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 683.7mg	0%
Iron 50.8mg	0%
Potassium 5193.7mg	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: 38.5%

Protein: 47.4%

Carbs: 14.1%