Authentic Nepalese Khasi Ko Masu: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Ingredients

  • 1 kg of mutton, cut into pieces
  • 3 large onions, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds
  • 1 tablespoon of garlic paste
  • 1 tablespoon of ginger paste
  • 2 teaspoons of turmeric powder
  • 2 tablespoons of red chili powder
  • 3 tablespoons of coriander powder
  • 1 tablespoon of ghee (clarified butter)
  • 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 2 cups of water
  • 1 bunch of fresh coriander leaves, chopped
  • Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the cumin and fenugreek seeds to the pan and sauté them until they start to crackle.
  3. Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  4. Add the ginger and garlic paste to the pan and sauté for another few minutes until the raw smell disappears.
  5. Add the mutton pieces to the pan and mix well to ensure the meat is coated with the spices.
  6. Add the turmeric, red chili, and corriander powders to the pan, mixing well to combine.
  7. Add salt to taste, then pour in the water.
  8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 1-2 hours, or until the mutton is tender.
  9. Once the mutton is tender, add the ghee and chopped fresh coriander leaves, stir well.
  10. Serve the Khasi Ko Masu hot with rice or flatbread.

Tools for making

  • Large pan - Used to cook the mutton and spices.
  • Cutting board - Used to chop the onions and fresh coriander leaves.
  • Knife - Used for cutting the mutton and chopping the onions and coriander.
  • Measuring spoons - Used to measure the spices accurately.
  • Spoons - Used for stirring and mixing the ingredients.
  • Cover or lid - Used to cover the pan while simmering the mutton.

Recipe variations

  • Vegetarian Variation: Replace the mutton with chunks of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu for a meat-free version.
  • Chicken Variation: Substitute the mutton with chicken pieces, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
  • Spicier Version: Increase the amount of red chili powder or add finely chopped green chilies for an extra kick of heat.
  • Coconut Milk: Add a cup of coconut milk to the dish for a creamy and slightly sweet flavor.
  • Herb Infusion: Infuse the dish with aromatic herbs like bay leaves, cinnamon, or cardamom for added depth of flavor.
  • Garnish Variation: Experiment with different garnishes such as fried onions, sliced ginger, or lemon wedges.
  • Slow Cooker Method: Instead of simmering on the stovetop, transfer the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

Recipe overview

Khasi Ko Masu is a traditional Nepalese mutton curry dish that is rich in flavor and quite satisfying. This hearty and aromatic delicacy is prepared by slow-cooking mutton in an array of aromatic spices, which results in tender, flavorful meat. Expect a dish that is not only bursting with taste but also deeply immersed in the culinary traditions of Nepal. The recipe may require some time and patience as the mutton needs to be slow-cooked for the right texture and flavor, but the end result is definitely worth the wait. Enjoy this delightful dish with a side of rice or flatbread for a complete meal.

Common questions

  1. Can I use chicken instead of mutton?
    Yes, you can substitute mutton with chicken in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as chicken takes less time to cook than mutton.
  2. Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker?
    Yes, you can use a pressure cooker to make Khasi Ko Masu. Cook the mutton for about 3-4 whistles or until it becomes tender.
  3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
    Absolutely! You can add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or peas to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish. Add them along with the mutton and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  4. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
    Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Khasi Ko Masu by substituting the mutton with tofu, paneer (Indian cottage cheese), or mixed vegetables. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  5. How spicy is this dish?
    The level of spiciness in the dish can be adjusted according to your preference. You can increase or decrease the amount of red chili powder based on how spicy you like it.
  6. Can I make this dish in advance?
    Yes, you can make Khasi Ko Masu in advance. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop further. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pan - A large pan is needed to cook the mutton and other ingredients.
  • Spatula - A spatula is useful for stirring and mixing the spices and mutton.
  • Knife - A knife is required to chop the onions and fresh coriander leaves.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board provides a surface for chopping the ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are handy for accurately measuring spices.
  • Serving dish - A serving dish is needed to present the Khasi Ko Masu.
  • Rice or flatbread - Rice or flatbread can be served alongside the Khasi Ko Masu.

Origin stories

Khasi Ko Masu is an emblematic dish of the Nepalese cuisine, particularly popular among the Newar community. This community is concentrated primarily in and around Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. What makes Khasi Ko Masu unique is the meticulous use of local spices and the slow-cooking process, which renders the mutton remarkably tender and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The dish is particularly savored during Dashain, the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, when families come together to celebrate. It is believed that the richness and warmth of Khasi Ko Masu serve as a befitting tribute to the grandeur of this festival. So, each bite of this succulent dish not only offers a peek into the rich culinary tradition of Nepal, but also echoes the joyous spirit of Nepalese festivities.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.