Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the rich flavors of India! Tahari, a popular South Indian dish, is known for its aromatic spices and fluffy basmati rice. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across the country, exploring 20 mouth-watering Tahari recipes that will make your senses sing.
From classic Vegetable Tahari with Fragrant Basmati Rice to Spicy Chicken Tahari with Whole Spices, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the diversity of Indian cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new, we’ve got you covered with our collection of flavorful Tahari recipes.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of meat-based dishes like Hyderabadi Lamb Tahari with Saffron and Beef Tahari with Caramelized Onions. We’ll also explore vegetarian options like Egg and Potato Tahari with Turmeric and Mushroom Tahari with Garlic and Herbs. And for those who prefer plant-based meals, we’ve got you covered with options like Quinoa Tahari with Mixed Vegetables and Spinach and Lentil Tahari.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking and discover the magic of Tahari!
Vegetable Tahari with Fragrant Basmati Rice
Tahari is a popular Indian dish that combines aromatic basmati rice with a flavorful vegetable mixture. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
For the Vegetable Tahari:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, potatoes, cauliflower)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
For the Fragrant Basmati Rice:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the basmati rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened.
3. Add mixed vegetables, cumin, garam masala powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Serve the vegetable mixture over fragrant basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chicken Tahari with Whole Spices
This recipe combines the warmth of whole spices with the bold flavors of chicken and aromatic vegetables, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With the heat of cayenne pepper and the comfort of fluffy rice, this Spicy Chicken Tahari is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for an additional 5-7 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in cooked rice and mixed vegetables. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hyderabadi Lamb Tahari with Saffron
This classic Hyderabadi dish is a flavorful and aromatic rice-based main course, typically served at special occasions. The combination of tender lamb, saffron-infused basmati rice, and a blend of spices creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
Instructions:
1. Cook basmati rice with 2 cups of water and saffron-infused water until fluffy.
2. In a separate pan, heat ghee or oil and cook lamb pieces until browned.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until onions are translucent.
4. Combine cooked rice with lamb mixture and mix well.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Egg and Potato Tahari with Turmeric
This Turkish-inspired dish is a flavorful and filling breakfast or brunch option, perfect for any time of day. The combination of eggs, potatoes, and turmeric creates a warm and aromatic meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and turmeric.
3. Add the diced potatoes to the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in the potato-egg mixture and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the eggs are set.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Paneer Tahari with Cashew Gravy
Paneer Tahari is a popular Punjabi dish that combines the creaminess of paneer (Indian cheese) with the richness of cashews. This recipe brings together the flavors of yogurt, spices, and nuts to create a velvety gravy perfect for serving with naan or basmati rice.
Ingredients:
– 250 gm paneer, cut into small cubes
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin seeds
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– 1/2 tsp garam masala powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp butter or oil
– 1 cup cashews, soaked in water for 4 hours and drained
– 1 cup yogurt
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat butter or oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until golden brown.
4. Add garlic, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add paneer cubes and cook until they are well coated with the spice mixture.
6. Add soaked cashews, yogurt, and water. Stir well to combine.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the gravy thickens.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Beef Tahari with Caramelized Onions
This classic Middle Eastern dish is a hearty and flavorful stew made with tender beef, sweet caramelized onions, and aromatic spices. Served over fluffy basmati rice, it’s a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef cubes (chuck or shank)
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 30 minutes).
2. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add beef and cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Add garlic, broth, water, and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
5. Serve hot over basmati rice, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes (including caramelizing onions).
Prawn Tahari with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired dish that combines succulent prawns with creamy coconut milk and a hint of spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large prawns, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add prawns; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; let sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
9. Serve immediately over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mushroom Tahari with Garlic and Herbs
A flavorful and aromatic Middle Eastern-inspired dish, Mushroom Tahari is a perfect blend of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and herbs. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed mushrooms, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley and cilantro. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the mushroom mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Keema Tahari with Peas and Mint
Keema Tahari is a popular Pakistani dish made with ground lamb, peas, and mint. This recipe combines the rich flavors of lamb with the freshness of mint and the sweetness of peas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 tsp cumin powder
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cups lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the lamb; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned.
4. Stir in cumin powder, coriander powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add the peas and mint leaves; stir well.
6. Add the lukewarm water; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lamb is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa Tahari with Mixed Vegetables
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with a variety of sautéed vegetables, all wrapped up in a fragrant blend of Middle Eastern spices. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner, this Quinoa Tahari is a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and stir into the vegetable mixture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Corn Tahari with Green Chilies
Sweet Corn Tahari with Green Chilies Recipe
Experience the perfect blend of Indian flavors with this delectable Sweet Corn Tahari with Green Chilies recipe. This dish is a twist on traditional tahari, incorporating sweet corn and green chilies for an added depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, cauliflower)
– 1 cup cooked sweet corn kernels
– 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
– 3-4 green chilies, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked sweet corn kernels. Stir well.
4. Add chopped green chilies and stir gently.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Add cooked rice to the skillet and stir well to combine with the vegetable mixture.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rajma Tahari with Tomato Masala
This popular Punjabi dish is a flavorful and comforting combination of kidney beans cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce, served over basmati rice. The addition of aromatic spices and creamy tomatoes makes it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kidney beans (rajma), soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato puree
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and garam masala powder. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add soaked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato puree, salt, and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Serve over basmati rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Lentil Tahari
This Spinach and Lentil Tahari is a flavorful and nutritious stew that combines the earthy taste of lentils with the nutritional power of spinach. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a comforting lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with fiber and protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the lentils, water, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fish Tahari with Lemon and Coriander
A flavorful and aromatic dish from the southern Indian state of Kerala, Fish Tahari is a popular seafood recipe that combines the freshness of fish with the warmth of spices. This version adds a burst of citrusy goodness and a hint of coriander to make it even more irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (preferably cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until they start browning.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add fish pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they are cooked through.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the fish and stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Biryani-Style Tahari with Fried Onions
This recipe combines the flavors of Indian-inspired tahari with the crunch and sweetness of fried onions, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless chicken or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken or beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onions to the pan and fry until golden brown, stirring occasionally, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir for 1 minute.
5. Add the rice and water to the pan and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
7. Stir in the browned meat and garnish with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Eggplant Tahari with Yogurt Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavors of eggplant and tahini with a refreshing yogurt sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together tahini, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add eggplant slices to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange eggplant slices in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
6. Meanwhile, mix yogurt and lemon juice in a small bowl.
7. Serve baked eggplant slices with yogurt sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea Tahari with Tamarind Glaze
Discover the bold flavors of North African cuisine with this vibrant and aromatic chickpea dish, elevated by a tangy tamarind glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup tamarind glaze (see below)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Tamarind Glaze:
– 1/2 cup tamarind paste
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in chickpeas and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Brush the tamarind glaze over the chickpea mixture and stir to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Tahari with Cumin and Mustard Seeds
This recipe is a twist on traditional tahari, a Middle Eastern pilaf, using roasted pumpkin and aromatic spices. The addition of cumin and mustard seeds gives this dish a warm, earthy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 cups basmati rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
– Salt to taste
– 4 cups water
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pumpkin cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and cumin. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large saucepan, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, mustard seeds, and roasted pumpkin to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
4. Add rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with spices and pumpkin.
5. Add water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cashew and Raisin Tahari with Saffron
Experience the rich flavors of the Middle East with this aromatic and nutty tahari dish, infused with saffron and bursting with cashews and raisins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 cup cashews, chopped
– 1/2 cup golden raisins
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and cook the rice according to package instructions.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cashews and cook until lightly toasted, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the raisins, soaked saffron, and cooked rice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the flavors are well combined.
5. Season with salt to taste. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Tomato and Bell Pepper Tahari with Fresh Basil
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional Indian-style rice dishes, this recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes and bell peppers with the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 large bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garam masala or cumin powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add diced tomatoes and bell peppers. Cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the soaked rice to the pan and stir to combine with the tomato-bell pepper mixture.
4. Add water to the pan and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Stir in chopped fresh basil and season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 20 mouth-watering Tahari recipes! From classic Vegetable Tahari with Basmati Rice to exotic Spicy Chicken Tahari with Whole Spices, and from comforting Egg and Potato Tahari with Turmeric to indulgent Paneer Tahari with Cashew Gravy, there’s something for everyone. Discover the perfect blend of spices, herbs, and ingredients in each dish, including Lamb Tahari with Saffron, Beef Tahari with Caramelized Onions, and many more. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat-lover, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.