Easy Beef Haleem Recipe: Slow-Cooked and Creamy

Easy Beef Haleem Recipe: Slow-Cooked and Creamy

Haleem is a rich, thick stew of meat, lentils and wheat, slow-cooked until everything blends into a smooth, creamy texture. It is a favourite in Ramadan, at Muharram and at family gatherings. A ready haleem mix takes care of the lentils, grains and spices, so you only need good meat and some patience.

Which meat is best for haleem?

Boneless beef or goat works best because it breaks down into fine strands. A few bone-in pieces add extra flavour to the stock.

Ingredients (serves 6)

  • 1 kg (about 2.2 lb) boneless halal beef, cut into cubes
  • 1 packet Shan Easy Cook Haleem Mix or Jazaa Haleem Mix (follow the packet for water and soaking)
  • 3/4 cup oil or ghee
  • 2 tablespoons ginger and garlic paste
  • Plenty of water (usually 10 to 12 cups, as the packet says)
  • To serve: crispy fried onions, sliced ginger, green chillies, coriander, mint, lemon and garam masala

Method

  1. Soak the grains. Soak the lentil and wheat pack from the mix as the packet says, usually a few hours or overnight.
  2. Cook the meat. Heat the oil, add ginger and garlic paste, then the beef. Fry for 5 minutes, add the spice pack, then water. Cover and simmer until the meat is very tender, about 2 to 3 hours (or about 45 minutes in a pressure cooker).
  3. Cook the grains. In a separate pot, boil the soaked grains in water until soft and mushy, about 1 hour.
  4. Combine and mash. Add the cooked grains to the meat. Mash with a wooden masher or use a hand blender in short bursts until thick and stringy. Keep stirring so it does not stick.
  5. Finish. Simmer on low for 20 to 30 minutes, adding hot water if too thick. Serve with all the toppings and naan.

Tips

  • Haleem thickens a lot as it cools. Loosen it with hot water when reheating.
  • It freezes well in portions for up to 3 months.

Find more cuts in halal beef and halal goat, and spice mixes in Spices & Masala.

Order everything you need from WeDoHalal. We bring fresh halal meat from trusted Edmonton butchers plus the spices and pantry items you need, with same-day or next-day delivery across Edmonton and nearby towns. Delivery is free on orders over $100. See our delivery areas.

Cooking, storage and thawing tips are general guidance only and some content is written with the help of AI, so please use your own judgement. Always follow safe food handling and cook meat to a safe internal temperature. See our Terms and Conditions.

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