How to Make Nihari Masala at Home – Authentic Nihari Masala Recipe for Beef & Chicken

Introduction

If you're a fan of rich, slow-cooked Pakistani dishes, you’ve surely heard of Nihari. It’s more than just food – it’s an emotion. But what truly gives Nihari its deep, unmistakable flavor is the nihari masala. Whether you're making beef nihari or prefer a lighter chicken nihari masala, the secret lies in the spice blend.

In this post, we'll guide you on how to make nihari masala at home, so you can enjoy the authentic taste without relying on store-bought packets full of preservatives.

What Is Nihari Masala?

Nihari Masala is a traditional spice blend used to cook Nihari, a slow-cooked stew usually made with beef shank or mutton. The masala contains a combination of aromatic and warm spices that build the signature flavor of this dish.

Key spices in nihari masala recipe often include:

• Dried ginger powder (saunth)

• Fennel seeds

• Coriander seeds

• Cardamom (black & green)

• Cloves

• Nutmeg

• Mace

• Star anise

• Black pepper

• Red chili powder

• Turmeric

Why Make Nihari Masala at Home?

There are countless pre-made spice packets available, but making your own homemade nihari masala has major advantages:

• No Preservatives: Pure spices only.

• Freshness: Ground fresh for strong aroma and taste.

• Customizable Heat & Flavor: Adjust spice levels to your liking.

• More Economical: One batch lasts several dishes.

Plus, it just feels good to say, “I made this from scratch.”

Ingredients You’ll Need (For Masala)

Here’s a complete list of ingredients to make about 6 tablespoons of masala – enough for 2 large servings of Nihari.

How to Make Nihari Masala at Home (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Dry Roast Whole Spices

In a non-stick pan, dry roast the following on medium heat for 2–3 minutes until aromatic:

• Coriander seeds

• Fennel seeds

• Cumin seeds

• Cloves

• Cardamoms

• Black peppercorns

• Bay leaves

• Cinnamon

• Star anise

• Mace

Step 2: Cool and Grind

Let the spices cool down completely. Then grind them using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.

Step 3: Add Ground Spices

Mix in the powdered:

• Red chili

• Turmeric

• Dry ginger

• Nutmeg

Step 4: Store It

Store in an airtight glass jar in a cool, dry place. Shelf life: 3–6 months.

Nihari Masala Recipe for Beef Nihari

Let’s put that masala to use!

Ingredients:

• Beef shank (nalli): 1 kg

• Onions: 2 sliced

• Garlic paste: 1 tbsp

• Nihari Masala: 3 tbsp

• Salt: To taste

• Atta (wheat flour): 3 tbsp (to thicken)

• Water: 6–7 cups

• Ghee or oil: ½ cup

Instructions:

1. Heat oil, add onions, and sauté till golden.

2. Add garlic paste and beef; cook until color changes.

3. Add nihari masala and salt.

4. Pour water and slow-cook for 3–4 hours (or pressure cook for 45 minutes).

5. Mix atta in water and add to thicken gravy.

6. Simmer for 30 more minutes until rich and thick.

Garnish with:

• Ginger slices

• Fresh coriander

• Lemon wedges

Chicken Nihari Masala Recipe

Prefer something lighter? Here’s how to make chicken nihari masala recipe:

Ingredients:

• Chicken (bone-in): 1 kg

• Onions: 1 sliced

• Garlic paste: 1 tbsp

• Nihari Masala: 2 tbsp

• Salt: To taste

• Atta: 2 tbsp

• Water: 4–5 cups

• Oil: ¼ cup

Instructions:

1. Fry onions in oil until golden.

2. Add chicken and garlic paste, cook until color changes.

3. Add nihari masala and salt.

4. Add water and cook for 45–60 mins.

5. Add atta mixture to thicken.

6. Simmer 10 minutes on low.

Serve hot with naan or kulcha.

Tips for Perfect Nihari

• Use bone-in meat: Bones add depth and natural gelatin.

• Cook low & slow: This brings out rich, deep flavors.

• Ghee > Oil: Traditional nihari tastes best in ghee.

• Overnight resting: Let it rest for 8–12 hours to enhance flavor.

• Avoid shortcuts: Don’t skip roasting spices or thickening with atta.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I store homemade nihari masala?

Yes, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It stays fresh for up to 6 months.

2. Is chicken nihari authentic?

While beef is traditional, chicken nihari masala is a lighter, modern variation loved by many.

3. Can I use this masala for other dishes?

Absolutely! It’s a versatile spice blend perfect for other slow-cooked stews.

4. Is it spicy?

You can control the heat by adjusting red chili powder to your preference.

Final Thoughts

Making nihari masala at home is easier than it sounds, and the result is a rich, flavorful dish that feels just like a traditional Pakistani Sunday breakfast. Whether you're making beef nihari or going for a lighter chicken nihari masala, having a fresh, homemade masala blend in your kitchen is a game-changer.

Now that you know how to make nihari masala at home, ditch the store-bought versions and bring out the chef in you. Once you try it, you’ll never look back!