Tahari, a popular North Indian dish, is known for its rich flavors and aroma. This hearty rice dish has become a staple in many households across India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. But did you know that tahari can be more than just a simple rice bowl? With the right combination of spices, herbs, and ingredients, tahari can be transformed into a flavorful and nutritious meal.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious tahari recipes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. From classic vegetable and chicken taharis to more adventurous options like lamb and prawn, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouth-watering dishes. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered.
Stay tuned for the next part of this article, where we’ll dive into the world of tahari recipes and share our favorite variations with you!
Vegetable Tahari with Spiced Basmati Rice
This vibrant Vegetable Tahari dish is a flavorful and nutritious meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of tender vegetables, aromatic spices, and fluffy basmati rice will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the basmati rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Drain the rice and add it to the skillet with the vegetable mixture. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes or until the rice is lightly toasted.
5. Add water to the skillet and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Tahari with Fragrant Herbs
Experience the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with this aromatic and flavorful Chicken Tahari dish, infused with fragrant herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for an additional 1 minute.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Lamb Tahari with Saffron Infusion
This classic Middle Eastern dish is a flavorful and aromatic stew made with tender lamb, fragrant spices, and a hint of saffron. The result is a rich and comforting meal perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb or beef broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, saffron mixture, and lamb. Cook until lamb is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Eggplant and Potato Tahari
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish from the Middle East, Eggplant and Potato Tahari is a delightful combination of roasted eggplants and potatoes with aromatic spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss eggplant cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the eggplant mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 30 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil until softened.
5. Add potato cubes to the pan and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Combine roasted eggplant, sautéed potatoes, and any accumulated juices in a serving dish.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Prawn Tahari with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic dish from the Malabar region of India, Prawn Tahari is a perfect blend of spices and coconut milk. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 250g prawns, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 250ml coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until they start to brown (3-4 minutes).
2. Add garlic, ginger, coriander seeds, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add prawns and cook until they turn pink (5-6 minutes).
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Peas Tahari
Tahari, a popular Indian flatbread, is elevated to new heights with the addition of nutritious spinach and peas. This recipe makes for a delicious and healthy meal option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add ghee or oil and lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
6. Place 1/4 cup of chopped spinach and peas onto one half of the circle.
7. Fold the other half over to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing edges to seal.
8. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
9. Serve hot with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef Tahari with Caramelized Onions
This Moroccan-inspired beef stew is a flavorful and hearty dish perfect for a cold winter’s night. Tender chunks of beef are slow-cooked in a rich broth with sweet caramelized onions, aromatic spices, and fragrant cumin.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck or shank, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Add the broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Mixed Vegetable Tahari with Cashews
A flavorful and nutritious Indian-inspired dish, this Mixed Vegetable Tahari is a delightful combination of roasted vegetables, cashews, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, etc.)
– 1/2 cup unsalted cashews
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss mixed vegetables with 1 tablespoon oil, cumin, and curry powder. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in roasted vegetables, cashews, and salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Paneer Tahari with Creamy Tomato Gravy
Experience the rich flavors of North Indian cuisine with this creamy paneer tahari recipe, served with a luscious tomato gravy. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 250 gm paneer (Indian cheese), cut into small cubes
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups creamy tomato gravy (recipe below)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and diced tomatoes. Cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Add paneer cubes, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Mix well.
4. Pour in creamy tomato gravy and stir to combine.
5. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Tomato Gravy Recipe (separate):
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a pan. Simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
Quinoa Tahari with Roasted Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sweet potato, bell pepper, zucchini, and onion. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork. Stir in roasted vegetables, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Fish Tahari with Lemon and Coriander
A classic Indian dish from the city of Hyderabad, Fish Tahari is a flavorful and aromatic stew that combines tender fish pieces with aromatic spices. This recipe adds a bright and citrusy twist with the addition of lemon juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start to brown (5 minutes).
3. Add garlic, coriander, cumin, turmeric, and red chili powder. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the fish pieces and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the lemon juice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Sweet Potato and Chickpea Tahari
Tahari, a traditional North African dish, gets a delicious twist with the addition of roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then add them to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
7. Slice the roasted sweet potatoes into thick wedges. Serve with the chickpea mixture spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Hyderabadi Chicken Tahari with Mint
A flavorful twist on the classic Hyderabadi dish, this recipe combines succulent chicken with aromatic spices and a hint of mint. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh mint leaves, chopped (for garnish)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, garam masala, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Mushroom Tahari
Tahari, a flavorful Middle Eastern dish, gets a spicy twist with the addition of sautéed mushrooms and a hint of cumin. This aromatic rice bowl is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin and smoked paprika. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork. Combine with mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil Tahari with Cumin and Mustard Seeds
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish, Lentil Tahari with Cumin and Mustard Seeds is a perfect blend of Indian spices and legumes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, mustard seeds, and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils, salt, and water; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Curried Cauliflower and Peas Tahari
A flavorful and aromatic vegetarian dish that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the brightness of peas, all wrapped up in a warm curry spice blend.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until they start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cauliflower and peas. Pour in the broth and stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric and Ginger Infused Tahari
Tahari, a flavorful Indian-inspired rice dish, gets a boost of health benefits from the addition of turmeric and ginger. This aromatic side dish is perfect for accompanying your favorite curries or stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– Salt, to taste
– Ghee or vegetable oil, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. While the rice cooks, add the turmeric and ginger to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve the tahari hot, garnished with melted ghee or vegetable oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Corn and Bell Pepper Tahari
Tahari, a popular Indian flatbread, gets a flavorful twist with the addition of sweet corn and bell peppers. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of corn with the crunch of bell peppers, all wrapped up in a crispy, buttery bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears)
– 1 large bell pepper, diced
– Optional: cumin seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a soft dough. Knead for 5 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired thickness.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch).
5. Brush with melted ghee or butter. Top with corn kernels and diced bell peppers.
6. Fold the edges of the bread over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tofu Tahari with Sesame Seeds
A popular Indian-inspired dish, Tofu Tahari is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian option that combines crispy tofu with aromatic spices and crunchy sesame seeds. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup of sesame seeds
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, turmeric, and salt.
5. Add the spice mixture to the tofu and stir to combine.
6. Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top of the tofu and stir gently.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sesame seeds are lightly toasted.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cardamom and Clove Flavored Tahari
Tahari, a traditional Indian dessert, gets an aromatic twist with the addition of cardamom and cloves. This sweet treat is perfect for special occasions or as a delightful surprise for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, melted ghee or butter, sugar, cardamom, and cloves. Mix until well combined.
3. Add milk and mix until the dough forms a ball.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then shape into a log.
5. Place the log in the prepared baking dish and flatten slightly.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let cool before slicing and dusting with confectioner’s sugar.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Discover a flavorful world of dishes with our collection of 20 delicious Tahari recipes! From Vegetable Tahari with Spiced Basmati Rice to Sweet Potato and Chickpea Tahari, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the rich flavors and aromas of this popular Middle Eastern dish. Whether you’re looking for vegetarian options like Spinach and Peas Tahari or meat-based dishes like Chicken Tahari with Fragrant Herbs, there’s something for everyone in this diverse lineup of recipes.
