Afa’s Desi Haleem Recipe

ghee

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: butter

Olive oil reduces saturated fat while maintaining flavor.

chicken

🥗Healthier: turkey

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Turkey is leaner, while thighs are cost-effective.

yogurt

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: sour cream

Greek yogurt adds protein with fewer calories.

fried onions

🥗Healthier: baked onions

💰Cheaper: raw onions

Baked onions provide flavor with less fat.

Soak wheat, barley, and lentils in water overnight.

Drain soaked grains and lentils.

Heat ghee in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in ginger and garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add chicken and beef, cooking until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.

Mix in soaked grains and lentils, stirring to combine.

Pour in enough water to cover the mixture and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally.

Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or in batches.

Return to heat and adjust consistency with water if needed, cooking for an additional 30 minutes.

Season with salt and spices to taste before serving.

Serve hot, garnished with yogurt, fried onions, cilantro, and lemon.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: