Mutton Paya is a rich and hearty dish made from slow-cooked trotters (paya) in a deeply flavorful broth. This dish is a staple in Pakistani cuisine, often enjoyed as a breakfast delicacy. The long cooking process extracts the natural gelatin and flavors from the bones, creating a thick, collagen-rich gravy that is both nutritious and delicious.
Paya is known for its warm, comforting taste and is commonly eaten with naan or steamed rice. Its rich aroma and slightly spicy, garlicky flavor make it an irresistible dish for those who enjoy traditional Pakistani cuisine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 mutton trotters (paya)
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tbsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups water
- Fresh coriander and lemon wedges for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Base
- Heat oil in a deep pot, add sliced onions, and sauté until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Stir well.
Slow Cook the Paya
- Add the trotters and water. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 6-8 hours until the broth is thick and the trotters are tender.
Final Touch
- Stir in garam masala and cook for another 10 minutes.
Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with naan.
Mutton Paya is a revered dish in South Asian cuisine, celebrated for its rich, gelatinous broth and deep, meaty flavors. This dish is prepared by simmering mutton trotters (feet) with onions, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices such as cardamom, cloves, and black pepper. The long cooking process breaks down the collagen in the trotters, resulting in a thick, creamy broth that is both nutritious and delicious. The spices infuse the broth with a complexity that enhances the natural flavors of the mutton, creating a stew that is both hearty and comforting.
Mutton Paya is often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a comforting dinner, especially appreciated during colder months for its warming properties. It is traditionally served with fresh, hot naan or fluffy tandoori roti, making it a fulfilling meal that satisfies the soul as much as it does the appetite. Preparing Mutton Paya at home allows you to experience the richness of traditional cooking and provides a wholesome, satisfying dish that can be enjoyed with family and friends on any occasion.
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