Sikkimese-inspired Balšića Tava

Ingredients

In this Sikkimese-inspired version of Balšića Tava, we incorporate the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Sikkimese cuisine. This includes the use of local spices like cardamom, turmeric, and ginger, as well as the addition of yak cheese and Sikkim red chili. These ingredients add a distinct Himalayan touch to the dish, elevating its flavor profile and giving it a unique twist. We alse have the original recipe for Balšića tava, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) lamb or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) lamb or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 Sikkim red chilies, finely chopped 2 Sikkim red chilies, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup (240ml) beef or vegetable broth 1 cup (240ml) beef or vegetable broth
• 100g (3.5 oz) yak cheese, grated 100g (3.5 oz) yak cheese, grated
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the meat to the pan and cook until it is browned on all sides.
4. 4.
   Stir in the ground cardamom, turmeric, grated ginger, and chopped Sikkim red chilies. Cook for another minute to release the flavors.
5. 5.
   Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they soften.
6. 6.
   Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.
7. 7.
   Once the meat is tender, sprinkle the grated yak cheese over the top and let it melt.
8. 8.
   Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro.
9. 9.
   Serve hot with steamed rice or traditional Sikkimese bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Yak cheese — If you can't find yak cheese, you can substitute it with a mild-flavored cheese like cheddar or mozzarella.
• Sikkim red chili — Adjust the amount of chili according to your spice preference. You can also substitute it with any other medium-spicy chili.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, marinate the meat with the spices and grated ginger for a few hours before cooking.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to the dish during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Serve the Balšića Tava with a side of traditional Sikkimese pickles for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Sikkimese-inspired Balšića Tava hot with steamed rice or traditional Sikkimese bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness and color.

Presentation advice

Present the Balšića Tava in a traditional Sikkimese copper serving dish or a rustic clay pot to enhance the visual appeal. Sprinkle some extra grated yak cheese and a pinch of ground cardamom on top for an elegant touch.