Bhuna Khichuri with Beef

Bhuna Khichuri with Beef is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of spiced beef curry with the warmth and satisfaction of traditional Bengali khichuri (a dish made with rice and lentils). This dish is perfect for rainy days or special family gatherings, offering a delicious blend of rice, lentils, and succulent beef.

Ingredients:

For Khichuri:

• 1 cup Basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
• 1/2 cup yellow moong dal (lentils, roasted)
• 1 onion (finely sliced)
• 2 green chilies (slit)
• 1 bay leaf
• 2-3 cardamom pods
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 2-3 cloves
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala powder
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder (optional)
• 3 cups water (for cooking the khichuri)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp ghee or oil

For Beef Bhuna:

• 500g beef (cut into medium-sized pieces)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2-3 green chilies (optional, for heat)
• 1 tomato (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp garam masala powder
• 1 cup yogurt (whisked)
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup oil
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves (chopped for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Roast the Moong Dal:

• Dry roast the moong dal in a pan over medium heat until it turns golden and gives off a nutty aroma. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Beef Bhuna:

• Heat oil in a large pan or pressure cooker. Add chopped onions and fry until golden brown.
• Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
• Add turmeric, red chili, cumin, and coriander powders. Fry for a minute, then add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and blend with the spices.
• Add the beef pieces, salt, and green chilies, and cook until the beef is browned and the spices coat the meat.
• Add the whisked yogurt, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the oil separates from the gravy.
• If using a pressure cooker, cook the beef until tender (about 3-4 whistles). If using a regular pot, cover and cook on low heat until the beef becomes tender, adding water as needed. Once done, keep it aside.

3. Cook the Khichuri:

• Heat ghee or oil in a large pan. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Fry until fragrant.
• Add the sliced onions and green chilies, and sauté until the onions are golden brown.
• Add the soaked rice and roasted moong dal. Stir well and add turmeric powder, salt, and red chili powder (if using).
• Pour in 3 cups of water, and cook on low-medium heat until the rice and dal are soft and the water is absorbed.
• Once cooked, sprinkle garam masala powder on top and mix gently.

4. Combine the Khichuri and Beef Bhuna:

• Add the prepared beef bhuna to the khichuri, stirring gently to mix the beef and its gravy with the rice and lentils.
• Allow the khichuri to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
• Serve hot with achar (pickle), a boiled egg, or fried papad for added flavor and texture.

Enjoy your flavorful Bhuna Khichuri with Beef, a comforting and rich dish perfect for any occasion!