Nakhee Salona

A Rich Culinary Heritage

Nakhee Salona is a traditional dish with rich roots in Middle Eastern cuisine, echoing the aromatic flavors of spices and tender meat. It holds significance during family gatherings and festive occasions, sharing cultural tales through its delightful taste and time-honored preparation techniques.

Ingredients for Nakhee Salona

• Lamb - 1 kg, cut into chunks
• Onions - 2 large, chopped
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 2-inch piece, grated
• Tomatoes - 3 medium, chopped
• Potatoes - 3 large, peeled and cubed
• Carrots - 2, sliced
• Green chilies - 2, slit
• Oil - 4 tablespoons
• Cumin seeds - 1 tsp
• Coriander powder - 2 tsp
• Cardamom pods - 4
• Cloves - 6
• Cinnamon stick - 1
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - 1 tsp
• Water - 3 cups
• Cumin powder - 1 tsp
• Turmeric - 1 tsp
• Parsley - for garnish

Preparing Nakhee Salona

1. Marinating the Lamb

   First, marinate the lamb chunks with salt, black pepper, and cumin powder. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator for flavors to meld.

2. Chopping the Vegetables

   While the lamb is marinating, chop the onions, tomatoes, and potatoes. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. Slice the carrots and slit the green chilies.

Cooking Nakhee Salona

1. Heat oil in a large pot. Add cumin seeds, cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Fry until the spices release their aroma.

2. Add onions and fry until golden brown. Then, add the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.

3. Add the marinated lamb chunks to the pot, searing them on all sides until browned.

4. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, coriander powder, and turmeric. Cook until the tomatoes are soft.

5. Pour in water, bring to a boil, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes or until the lamb is tender. You may want to set a cooking timer to ensure perfect timing.

6. Add the potatoes and carrots. Simmer until the vegetables are cooked through.

7. Add green chilies towards the end of cooking for a hint of spice. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serving and Enjoying Nakhee Salona

Garnish the Nakhee Salona with fresh parsley before serving to add a touch of greenery and freshness. This flavorful dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or freshly baked bread, allowing the rich juices to be enjoyed fully. It's customary to share this delightful dish in a communal setting, savoring both the food and the fellowship it fosters.