Curry Research: Pakistan

Pakistani cuisine is a rich and flavorful fusion with strong influences from both India and the Middle East. Culinary styles vary from region to region, especially with regard to Sindh and Punjab, where flavors and techniques strongly resemble those of North India; and in the western provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, where distinctive Afghani influences are prevalent. In

The Muslim dietary laws known as halal are strictly followed by many Pakistani people, which means abstinence from alcohol and certain types of meat, especially pork. However, the Pakistani Muslim diet does include lamb, beef, chicken, dairy, and an abundance of fruits and vegetables. Seafood is a common component in the coastal cuisines of the Sindh and Makran. Curried vegetables and legumes are widely consumed among the vegetarian population. Rice dishes such as basmati pulao and biriyani, along with an enticing variety of flatbreads, are also important components of daily fare.

Pakistani cuisine is known for its rich flavors, and in certain regions, the use of oil in the cooking process. Grilling and tandoori oven roasting are popular cooking methods for meats and breads, along with braising and stewing for the preparation of rich curry sauces.

Aromatic spices that lend their aromas and flavors to Pakistani cuisine include cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, coriander, nutmeg, and mace. Spice blends known as garam masala are also used to flavor many dishes.

Like Indian curries, the curries of Pakistan may be prepared using a dry spice rub or a spiced marinade for grilled or tandoori kebabs; or with a richly flavorful sauce made with a variety of fresh ingredients such as tomatoes, potatoes, yogurt, garlic, and leafy herbs.

Karahi (spiced, grilled lamb or chicken) is one of Pakistan?s most popular dishes, as is Nihari (a rich beef or lamb shank stew), and Haleem (a hearty Persian-style ragout of beef, wheat and lentils). Korma (a fragrant chicken or lamb stew made with coconut milk), and Aloo Gosht (a spicy meat and potato curry) are common fare, especially in Pakistani home kitchens.