Authentic Nepalese Pakku Recipe: A Traditional Lamb Dish

Ingredients

1 kg Mutton
2 tbsp Oil
1 tbsp Ghee
2 large Onions, finely chopped
2 tbsp Ginger-Garlic paste
3-4 Green Chillies, sliced
1 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
2 tsp Red Chilli powder
2 tsp Coriander powder
1 tsp Garam Masala powder
1 cup Yogurt, whisked
Salt, to taste
2 cups Water
2 tbsp Fresh Cilantro, chopped
2 tbsp Fresh Mint leaves, chopped

Steps and instructions

First, wash the mutton pieces thoroughly and set aside.
In a large pan, heat the oil and ghee together over a medium flame.
Add the finely chopped onions into the pan and fry until they turn golden brown.
Now, add the ginger-garlic paste and green chillies to the pan and sauté for a few minutes, until the raw smell disappears.
Add the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and garam masala to the pan. Stir well and cook for a couple of minutes.
Add the mutton pieces to the pan and cook on a high flame for 5-7 minutes, until the mutton turns brown.
Reduce the flame to low, add the whisked yogurt to the pan, and mix well. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Add salt to taste and then pour in the water. Cover the pan and let it simmer for around 45 minutes, or until the mutton is tender and the gravy has thickened.
Once the mutton is cooked, sprinkle the freshly chopped cilantro and mint leaves on top. Stir well.
Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Your delicious Pakku is now ready to be served.

Tools for making

Large Pan - A large pan will be needed to cook the mutton and make the gravy.
Spatula - A spatula will be useful for stirring and mixing the ingredients while cooking.
Knife - A knife will be required for chopping the onions, cilantro, and mint leaves.
Cutting Board - A cutting board will provide a stable surface for chopping the ingredients.
Whisk - A whisk will be needed to whisk the yogurt before adding it to the pan.
Cover or Lid - A cover or lid will be used to cover the pan while simmering the mutton.

Recipe variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the mutton with mixed vegetables like potatoes, carrots, peas, and bell peppers.
To make it spicier, increase the amount of red chilli powder or add some crushed black pepper.
Add a handful of curry leaves for an aromatic flavor.
For a richer taste, replace the oil with clarified butter (ghee) in the same quantity.
Include a teaspoon of meat masala or biryani masala to enhance the flavors.
Add a teaspoon of roasted cumin powder for a unique twist.
To make it more tangy, squeeze in some lemon juice towards the end of the cooking process.
Experiment with the choice of meat such as lamb, beef, or chicken for different variations.
For a creamy texture, add a few tablespoons of coconut milk or cream.
For a smoky flavor, you can grill or roast the mutton before adding it to the curry.

Recipe overview

Pakku is a hearty and flavorful mutton dish that hails from the traditional cuisine of Nepal. This savory recipe combines tender mutton pieces with an aromatic blend of spices and yogurt, all simmered together to create a rich and satisfying gravy. The result is a meal that's not only comforting and delicious, but also packed with protein and nutrients. The process involves browning the mutton, sautéing the spices, and then simmering everything together until you've achieved the perfect balance of flavors. Sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro and mint leaves on top for a touch of freshness that perfectly complements the robust flavors. Whether you're new to Nepalese cuisine or a long-time fan, this Pakku recipe is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

Common questions

How long does it take to cook Pakku?
It takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to cook Pakku from start to finish.
Can I use any other meat instead of mutton?
Yes, you can substitute mutton with lamb or beef in this recipe.
Is it necessary to marinate the mutton?
No, marinating the mutton is not required for this recipe.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of red chilli powder and green chillies according to your preferred spice level.
Can I make Pakku ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Pakku in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. The flavors tend to develop and enhance over time.
What can I serve Pakku with?
Pakku pairs well with rice, roti (Indian bread), or naan. You can also serve it with a side of raita (yogurt-based dip) and salad.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover Pakku in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving dishes and utensils

Cutting Board - Used for chopping onions and other ingredients.
Knife - Essential for cutting and preparing the mutton and other ingredients.
Large Pan - To cook the mutton and prepare the gravy.
Spatula - Helps in stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan.
Whisk - Used to whisk the yogurt before adding it to the pan.
Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure and add the spices to the dish.
Lid - Required to cover the pan while simmering the mutton.
Serving Bowl - Used to serve the delicious Pakku.

Origin stories

Pakku, a succulent mutton dish, hails from the rugged terrain of Uttarakhand in northern India. Enveloped by the majestic Himalayas, Uttarakhand's cuisine is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of its people. Traditional cooking methods are employed, with wood and charcoal fires lending a unique smoky flavor to the dishes. Pakku, in particular, is a beloved staple, made with mutton slow-cooked in a medley of spices until tender and flavorful. It was traditionally prepared by the Bhotiya tribe during festive occasions as a celebratory meal, and its rich, aromatic flavors are a tribute to the tribe's enduring spirit amidst the harsh Himalayan winters. Today, Pakku remains a cherished delicacy, warming hearts and homes with its comforting goodness. Even as times change, the rhythms of life in the Himalayas echo in each simmering pot of Pakku, a dish that truly encapsulates the essence of Uttarakhand.

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.