Ametha Net Aloo Hin

Ametha Net Aloo Hin Recipe - Burmese Beef and Potato Stew

Region / culture: Burma | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ametha Net Aloo Hin is a traditional dish that combines the rich flavors of beef and potatoes with a blend of aromatic spices. This recipe is a testament to the culinary diversity found in South Asian cuisine, offering a hearty and comforting meal that is both flavorful and satisfying. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

History

The origins of Ametha Net Aloo Hin can be traced back to the rural kitchens of South Asia, where it was developed as a means to make the most of available ingredients while providing a nutritious and filling meal. Over time, the recipe has been passed down through generations, with each adding their own touch to this beloved dish. Today, it stands as a symbol of cultural heritage and culinary tradition in South Asian communities around the world.

Ingredients

750 g of beef
375 g of potatoes
2 large onions
5 large cloves of garlic
2 tsp of chopped ginger
1 tsp of ground turmeric
1 tsp of chili powder
8 tbsp of light sesame oil
0.5 tsp of ground cumin
0.5 tsp of ground coriander
1.5 tsp of salt
2 cups of water

How to prepare

Cut the beef into large squares. Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into quarters. Put the onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and chili powder in a food processor. Process until you get a paste-like mixture. In a wok or deep-sided frying pan, heat the oil. Add the spicy paste and stir. Cook over low heat for 10 minutes. If the mixture starts to burn or dry, add a little water. The spicy paste is cooked when it turns golden brown and has oil around the edges. Add the cumin and coriander and stir. Add the beef and fry, stirring for 3–5 minutes. Season with salt to taste, then add 2 cups of water and the potatoes. Simmer slowly until the beef and potatoes are tender. This recipe serves 4.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with chickpeas or tofu. Adding vegetables like carrots or peas can increase the dish's nutritional value and color.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the beef is tender and flavorful, marinate it for at least an hour before cooking. Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent the spices from burning. Adding a bit of sugar to the spicy paste can enhance the flavors. Cook the potatoes separately until they are just tender to avoid them becoming too mushy when added to the beef.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ametha Net Aloo Hin with a side of steamed rice or flatbread like naan or roti for a complete meal. A fresh cucumber salad can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the beef ensures it becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the spices. Using a pressure cooker can reduce cooking time while still achieving tender meat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If light sesame oil is not available, canola or vegetable oil can be used as alternatives. Sweet potatoes can be used instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The spicy paste can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The entire dish can also be cooked ahead of time and reheated, as the flavors often deepen when left to sit.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro and serve it in a traditional clay pot for an authentic presentation. A side of lime wedges can add a refreshing zest to the dish.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp beer or a glass of Riesling pairs well with the rich flavors of Ametha Net Aloo Hin, balancing the spice and richness of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if the dish seems dry.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Ametha Net Aloo Hin contains approximately 450 calories. This makes it a hearty meal option that can fit into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Ametha Net Aloo Hin contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the potatoes. This provides a good source of energy for the body.

Fats

This dish contains about 20 grams of fat per serving, with the majority coming from the sesame oil used in cooking. Opting for light sesame oil can help reduce the overall fat content.

Proteins

Each serving of Ametha Net Aloo Hin offers around 35 grams of protein, making it an excellent source of this essential nutrient. The beef not only contributes to the dish's rich flavor but also provides a substantial amount of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

The ingredients in Ametha Net Aloo Hin contribute various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the potatoes, iron from the beef, and antioxidants from the spices. These nutrients support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains no major allergens like nuts, dairy, or gluten. However, those with sensitivities to nightshades should be cautious due to the potatoes and spices.

Summary

Ametha Net Aloo Hin is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a nutritious option that can be part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Ametha Net Aloo Hin is a flavorful and nutritious dish that showcases the rich culinary traditions of South Asia. With its combination of tender beef, hearty potatoes, and aromatic spices, it offers a comforting and satisfying meal suitable for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Ametha in her cozy kitchen. Ametha was known for her delicious cooking, and I always looked forward to our culinary adventures together.

As we sipped on tea and caught up on the latest news, Ametha suddenly remembered a special recipe that she had been wanting to share with me. She rummaged through her old recipe box and pulled out a faded piece of paper. On it was written the ingredients and instructions for a dish called Ametha Net Aloo Hin.

Ametha explained that this dish was a family recipe passed down through generations. It was a traditional Indian dish that was typically served during celebrations and special occasions. I was thrilled that she was willing to share such a cherished recipe with me.

As we gathered the ingredients and prepared the dish, Ametha shared the story behind the recipe. She told me that the dish was a favorite of her grandmother, who was a renowned cook in their village. Her grandmother had learned the recipe from a traveling chef who had visited their village many years ago.

The dish was a flavorful combination of potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and a special blend of spices. It was simmered slowly over a low flame, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich and aromatic dish. As we cooked, the fragrant smells filled the kitchen, and I could feel my mouth watering in anticipation.

After a few hours of simmering and stirring, the dish was finally ready. We garnished it with fresh cilantro and served it with steaming hot rice. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of bold flavors and exotic spices. The dish was a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, and I couldn't get enough.

I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish myself so that I could share it with my own family and friends. Ametha graciously wrote down the recipe for me and patiently walked me through each step. She taught me the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to let the flavors develop.

Over the years, I have made Ametha Net Aloo Hin countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its delicious flavors. It has become a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of that special day in Ametha's kitchen when I first discovered the magic of this dish.

As I sit here now, writing down this story, I can't help but think about the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. The recipe for Ametha Net Aloo Hin will always hold a special place in my heart, a tribute to my dear friend Ametha and the culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn this recipe and for the friendships that have blossomed over shared meals and conversations. Cooking has always been a way for me to express my creativity and connect with others, and I hope that this recipe will continue to bring joy and warmth to those who taste it.

So here it is, the recipe for Ametha Net Aloo Hin, a dish that has brought me so much joy and culinary delight. May it bring you the same happiness and satisfaction that it has brought me over the years. Cheers to good food, good friends, and the magic of sharing a delicious meal together.