Beef Paya is a traditional South Asian stew revered for its rich, gelatinous broth derived from the slow simmering of beef trotters. The lengthy cooking process extracts deep flavors and nutrients from the bones, creating a luxuriously thick broth that’s highly valued for its taste and health benefits, particularly for joints and skin. The dish is robust with spices that enhance the naturally intense flavors of the marrow. Often consumed as a hearty breakfast or a warm dinner, Beef Paya is a comforting stew perfect for cold days. It is traditionally served with freshly baked naan or fluffy white rice, making it a complete, satisfying meal that nourishes both the body and soul.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 beef trotters (paya), cleaned and prepared
- 1 onion, finely sliced
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 piece of ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 6 cups water
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until golden.
- Add the trotters, turmeric, coriander powder, and salt. Stir to coat the trotters evenly with the spices.
- Pour in water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 6-8 hours, occasionally skimming off any foam that forms on the surface.
- Once the trotters are tender and the broth is thick and gelatinous, sprinkle garam masala over the stew and stir through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired, alongside naan or rice.
Beef Paya is a traditional South Asian dish known for its deep, nourishing flavors derived from the long simmering of beef trotters. The process of cooking Paya involves stewing the trotters with onions, garlic, and a blend of spices including cloves, black pepper, and cardamom until the bones release their marrow and the collagen turns into a rich, gelatinous broth. This slow-cooked method not only imparts a unique texture but also ensures that all the savory flavors are thoroughly infused into the soup.
Beef Paya is often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a warming dinner, praised for its supposed health benefits, including boosting joint health and improving skin elasticity due to its high collagen content. Serve this luxurious soup with freshly chopped cilantro, slices of ginger, and a squeeze of lime to enhance its flavors.
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