Cow feet curry, also known as "Paya Curry" in South Asian cuisine, is a delicious and hearty dish known for its rich flavor and gelatinous texture. Traditionally prepared over hours of slow cooking, this dish is a staple in many cultures, particularly in Pakistan, India, and parts of Africa. Cow feet for curry (or "trotters") are packed with collagen, making this curry not only tasty but also nutritious for bones and joints. Let’s walk through how to cook this traditional dish at home.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare traditional cow feet curry at home, gather the following ingredients:

Main:

• 2 kg cow feet (cleaned and chopped)

• 2 medium onions (finely sliced)

• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste

• 3-4 tablespoons oil or ghee

• 1 cup yogurt (whisked)

• 2-3 tomatoes (chopped or pureed)

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 2 teaspoons red chili powder (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon coriander powder

• Salt to taste

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• Fresh coriander for garnish

• 6-8 cups water (for pressure cooking or slow simmering)

Optional:

• Green chilies

• Lemon wedges

• Whole spices (e.g., bay leaf, cloves, cardamom)

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Preparation Steps

Step 1: Clean the Cow Feet

Cow feet should be cleaned properly before cooking. Wash thoroughly under running water. If needed, soak them in water with vinegar for 20 minutes to eliminate any odor. Drain and rinse again.

Step 2: Initial Boiling (Optional)

Some prefer to boil cow feet in water with a pinch of turmeric and salt for 15–20 minutes and discard the water. This step helps further clean the meat and reduces any strong smell.

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Step 3: Cooking the Curry Base

1. Heat oil or ghee in a large pot or pressure cooker.

2. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.

3. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

4. Add tomatoes and cook until they break down and the oil separates.

5. Mix in turmeric, red chili, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well.

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Step 4: Add Cow Feet and Yogurt

1. Add the cleaned cow feet into the masala and mix to coat well.

2. Add the whisked yogurt and cook on medium heat for about 10 minutes until the yogurt blends with the spices.

3. Keep stirring to avoid curdling.

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Step 5: Simmer or Pressure Cook

• For pressure cooker: Add 6–8 cups of water, close the lid, and pressure cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour until the meat becomes soft and gelatinous.

• For traditional slow cooking: Cover and simmer on low heat for 4–6 hours, stirring occasionally. This brings out the best flavor and texture.

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Step 6: Final Touches

1. Once the cow feet are tender, cook uncovered to reduce and thicken the gravy to your liking.

2. Sprinkle garam masala and stir.

3. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and optionally green chilies.

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Serving Suggestions

Cow feet curry is best enjoyed hot, served with:

• Fresh naan, roti, or paratha

• Steamed basmati rice

• Sliced onions and lemon wedges on the side

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Tips for Best Results

• Cooking slowly allows the bones to release their natural collagen, enhancing flavor and richness.

• Letting the curry rest for a few hours before serving improves the taste.

• Always taste and adjust salt and spices before serving.

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Conclusion

Cooking traditional cow feet curry at home may take time, but the result is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family meals or special occasions. With the right ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy an authentic culinary experience right in your kitchen.