Afghan · intermediate
Afghan Caramelized Turnip And Spiced Beef Braise
Tender beef chunks simmered with pan-seared turnip wedges in a warm aromatic gravy seasoned with cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and dark brown sugar.
- PREP TIME
- 20 min
- COOK TIME
- 50 min
- SERVES
- 4
LET’S MAKE IT
Step by step
- 01
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a wide pot over medium-high heat and sear turnip wedges for 5 minutes until edges are golden brown, then set aside.
- 02
Add remaining oil to the pot and sear beef cubes for 6 minutes until deeply browned on all sides, then remove beef and set aside.
- 03
Add sliced onion to the pot and cook for 6 minutes until soft and caramelized, then stir in tomato paste, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
- 04
Return browned beef to the pot, pour in beef stock, cover with a tight lid, and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.
- 05
Add caramelized turnips back to the pot, cover, and simmer for another 15 minutes until turnips and beef are fork-tender.
- 06
Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then let rest for 5 minutes before serving alongside steamed rice.
A LITTLE KITCHEN KNOW-HOW
Sear-Braising
Browning proteins and vegetables at high heat to generate Maillard browning before cooking gently covered in liquid.
Notes from the kitchen
- Searing turnips before braising seals in their moisture and deepens their natural sweetness.
- Choose firm, small-to-medium turnips for a milder flavor and smoother texture.
- Original home-cooking adaptation inspired by Afghan; regional versions vary.
- Use halal-certified meat, poultry, stock, sauces, cheese and other processed ingredients. Check labels and avoid cross-contamination. Recipe screening is not halal certification.
