Aloo Keema Recipe

 Aloo Keema Recipe

Pakistani Aloo Keema is a flavorful and hearty dish made with potatoes (aloo) and minced meat (keema), cooked in a rich and aromatic tomato-based gravy. It's a popular comfort food, often served with rice, roti, or naan. Spicy, savory, and utterly delicious.

Pakistani Aloo Keema is a beloved and comforting dish that combines minced meat (keema) with potatoes (aloo) in a rich and flavorful tomato-based gravy. This hearty meal is a staple in many Pakistani households, often served with rice, roti, or naan. Here's a detailed guide to making authentic Pakistani Aloo Keema at home.

### Ingredients:

#### For the Keema:

- 500 grams minced meat (beef, lamb, or chicken)

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated

- 1 teaspoon cumin powder

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

- Salt to taste

#### For the Gravy:

- 2 large tomatoes, chopped

- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee

- 1 bay leaf

- 2-3 cloves

- 2-3 green cardamom pods

- 1 cinnamon stick

- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)

- 1 cup water or broth

- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

#### For the Potatoes:

- 2-3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

- Salt to taste

- Oil for frying (optional)

### Instructions:

#### Preparing the Potatoes:

1. Fry or Boil Potatoes: Heat oil in a pan and fry the potato cubes until golden brown. Alternatively, you can boil the potatoes until tender. Set aside.

#### Making the Keema:

1. Sauté Onions: Heat oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

2. Add Ginger and Garlic: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.

3. Add Minced Meat: Add the minced meat and cook until it changes color and starts to brown.

4. Add Spices: Add cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a few minutes until the spices are fragrant.

#### Making the Gravy:

1. Add Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they soften and the oil starts to separate from the masala.

2. Add Whole Spices: Add the bay leaf, cloves, green cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick. Let them release their aroma.

3. Add Tomato Paste: If using, add the tomato paste and mix well. Cook for a few minutes until the paste is well incorporated.

4. Add Water or Broth: Add water or broth to the pan and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.

5. Add Potatoes: Add the fried or boiled potatoes to the gravy. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the potatoes to absorb the flavors.

#### Final Touches:

1. Garnish: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

2. Serve: Serve hot with rice, roti, or naan.

### Tips:

- Meat Quality: Use fresh and good-quality minced meat for the best flavor.

- Adjusting Spice Level: Customize the amount of red chili powder and other spices according to your taste preferences.

- Potato Texture: Fry the potatoes for a crispy texture or boil them for a softer texture.

### Variations:

- Vegetarian Version: Replace the minced meat with mushrooms or paneer for a vegetarian version.

- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red chili powder.

- Additional Ingredients:

 Add other vegetables like peas or carrots to the gravy for added flavor and nutrition.

Aloo Keema is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the richness of minced meat with the heartiness of potatoes. It's perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or even a simple weeknight dinner. Enjoy making and savoring this traditional Pakistani recipe!