Shan Paya Masala

Shan Paya Masala is a spice blend used to prepare Paya, a traditional South Asian curry made with goat, lamb, or beef trotters. The dish is slow-cooked for several hours to extract rich flavors and gelatin from the bones, resulting in a hearty and flavorful broth. It’s typically enjoyed as a breakfast dish, especially in Pakistan and India, and is often served with naan or chapati.
Key Features of Shan Paya Masala:
Authentic Taste: The blend is crafted to give Paya its signature deep, spicy, and savory flavor.
Complete Spice Mix: Shan Paya Masala includes all the essential spices, making the preparation easier and quicker without the need to add individual spices.
Rich Ingredients: Common ingredients include red chili powder, coriander, turmeric, cumin, ginger, garlic, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and nutmeg, among others.
How to Use Shan Paya Masala:
Meat Selection: Paya is made using goat, lamb, or beef trotters (hooves), which are cleaned thoroughly before cooking.
Cooking Process:
Step 1: In a large pot, heat oil and add garlic/ginger paste. Then, sauté the meat for a few minutes.
Step 2: Add water and bring to a boil. Allow it to simmer on low heat for several hours (usually 4-6 hours or more), until the meat becomes tender, and the marrow and gelatin are released, creating a rich broth.
Step 3: Mix the Shan Paya Masala with water to make a paste and add it to the pot. Let it cook further until the spices infuse deeply into the meat.
Step 4: Adjust the consistency of the broth by adding more water if needed. Some like it thicker, while others prefer a soup-like consistency.
Serving: Once ready, garnish with fresh cilantro, green chilies, ginger slices, and lemon wedges. Paya is best enjoyed with naan, roti, or chapati.
Cooking Tips:
Slow Cooking: The secret to a perfect Paya dish is slow-cooking it for several hours. This allows the flavors to deepen and the gelatin to be fully extracted from the trotters.
Optional Ingredients: Some variations may include onions or tomatoes for added flavor and thickness.
Serving Suggestions: Accompany the dish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs to enhance the taste.
Health Benefits:
Rich in Collagen: Paya curry is often considered nutritious because it is rich in collagen and gelatin, which are good for joint and skin health.
Flavorful and Hearty: Due to the slow-cooking process, the broth becomes thick and full of nutrients, making it a hearty meal.
Would you like detailed instructions for making Paya using this masala?