Pakistani Beef & Potatoes (Aloo Keema)

Servings: 4

Author: Chef Connie

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Pakistani Beef & Potatoes (Aloo Kema)

Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 35 MinTotal time: 45 Min

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Ingredients

• 500g minced meat (beef, chicken, or lamb)
• 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2-3 cloves
• 2-3 green cardamom pods
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• 1 cup water

Instructions

1. Heat the oil: In a large pan, heat oil or ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods. Sauté for a minute until they release their aroma.
2. Add onions: Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. Ginger-garlic paste: Add the ginger-garlic paste to the onions and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add tomatoes and spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
5. Add minced meat: Add the minced meat to the pan and cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the meat changes color and no longer looks raw. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
6. Potatoes and water: Add the cubed potatoes and mix well with the meat. Pour in 1 cup of water, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the keema is cooked through.
7. Finishing touches: Once the keema is cooked, sprinkle garam masala over the dish and give it a final stir. Cook for another 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
8. Garnish: Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
9. Serve: Over basmati rice or with Naan

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Aloo Keema: A Classic Comfort Food from South Asia

Aloo Keema, a simple yet flavorful dish made with minced meat (keema) and potatoes (aloo), is a staple in South Asian households. It is the epitome of comfort food, combining hearty ingredients with aromatic spices to create a wholesome meal that’s loved by all ages. Whether you prefer beef, chicken, or lamb, this dish allows flexibility with the choice of minced meat while maintaining its signature warmth and savory richness.

What sets Aloo Keema apart is its balance of spices and textures. The soft, tender potatoes absorb the fragrant blend of cumin, coriander, and garam masala, while the minced meat provides a rich, protein-packed base. The dish is further elevated with the subtle heat of green chilies and the tangy sweetness of tomatoes. This combination creates a depth of flavor that feels both familiar and exciting, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.

Aloo Keema is as versatile as it is delicious. You can pair it with freshly made naan, roti, or a simple bowl of steamed rice. It's also a great make-ahead dish, as its flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more flavorful. For those who enjoy a bit of customization, you can add peas or carrots to the mix, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy finish. This beloved dish has stood the test of time, offering comfort and warmth to every table it graces.