Where to get delicious nihari for just Dh17 in Dubai

For the last three decades, Delhi Restaurant on Naif Road in Deira has served the best nihari in town.

Food lovers in Dubai are lucky. They get to taste all kinds of food at every corner. Fans of desi food, who crave traditional dishes such as an 18 century classic, nihari, have plenty of options. Some say: in Dubai you'll find a tastier dish than the original in New Delhi and Lahore!

Nihari derives from the Arabic word 'nahar', which means 'morning'. Made with beef or chicken, nihari can be nalli nihari (bone marrow) and magaz nihari (fried brain). Indians and Pakistanis love their nihari and it's a bonus that places that serve a mean nihari also produce some excellent biryanis, kababs, and daleem. If you're on a quest for the best nihari in Dubai, we recommend these places known for their tasty food with a no-fuss traditional style.

For the last three decades, Delhi Restaurant on Naif Road in Deira has served the best nihari in town. There is always a queue to find a place to sit. And the wait always pays off.

If the queues here are too long for you, B&B Cricket Bar at Sultan Business Centre, Oud Metha, is another popular joint, definitely one of the places that serves an authentic nihari. People who live near Lamcy Plaza are some of their most loyal customers.

Daily Restaurant at Al Karama and Al Qusais is also popular for its nihari and grill. These places don't need to advertise. Every serious foodie knows to seek out these gems. At Daily Restaurant, they serve nihari with standard condiments and khameeri roti, a combination that attracts repeat business. In addition, Delhi Nihari, Barbecue Delights, Lal Qila, Nayaab Haandi and Ravi Restaurant also attract nihari fans in Dubai.

In a nutshell

A perfect nihari should have a well-done piece of beef (or mutton or chicken - chicken is the least preferred, among enthusiasts), and be served with lemon, coriander, thinly-sliced ginger and green chillies. Hardcore fans like nihari with khameeri roti. Popular nihari dishes are nalli nihari (bone marrow) and magaz nihari (fried brain). At Delhi Restaurant a plate of nihari is Dh17, Magaz Dh24, Zaban Nihari Dh24. At Daily Restaurant, prices are: Sadi Nihari for Dh18, Magaz Nihari for Dh23, and Zaban Nihari for Dh24. Only!

KITCHEN HINT

The fastest way to defrost meat is to put it under a tap. But instead of wasting water, a better alternative to keep the green brigade happy, is to place the meat on an aluminum sheet. A great conductor of heat, aluminum draws energy from its surrounding environment. Don't just toss the sheet away once the meat is thawed. Recycle.

NUTRI NUGGETS

Garlic is a powerhouse

Used as food and medicine for thousands of years, garlic is famous for its anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. The compound allicin in garlic fights allergies, bacteria, and a host of other infections. Garlic's got ajoene in it that helps treat nasty skin infections - athlete's foot, for one. And its anti-clotting properties work like blood thinners; they lower your chances of a heart attack. Pop a smashed garlic pearl first thing in the morning on an empty stomach and chase it with half a glass of warm water. For the sake of others who share your morning space, do not chew. Your breath will be more tolerable.

Tales of turmeric

A natural liver detoxifier, turmeric contains an anti-inflammatory chemical known as curcumin (that gives it its colour). Known for its antioxidant properties, turmeric boosts immunity and fights sicknesses. It's also a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent. If you cut yourself, treat the wound with a pinch of the spice and watch it heal in no time. Turmeric is also great to ward off Alzheimer's, which is why, statistically Indians don't suffer from it too much, given the amount of haldi in our curries. Turmeric is a blood cleanser, which means it's great for your skin. Have a pinch in milk at night and watch your face impart a healthy glow.

Lemons clean you up

Who doesn't love a glass of sweet lemonade? But besides being a refreshing drink in summer, it's also great to detoxify your liver (hold off on the sugar!) Squeeze half-a-lemon in a glass of warm water and honey (that's permitted) in the morning. Boosts immunity and cleans the system. It's a good morning drink if you want to lose weight. When applied externally, lemons can treat a bunch of minor ailments as well. Use on the scalp to rid yourself of dandruff and hair loss. Yet another quick-fix: if you massage your gums with lemon juice, your gums will stop bleeding (if in they do in the first place). Added bonus: the vitamin c kick.

muzaffarrizvi@khaleejtimes.com

• Food and Dining
• Dubai