Saturday, November 22, 2025

HUNGRY MAN KITCHEN: Turkish-style Braised Beef with Browned Butter Pilaf and Shepherd's Salad

Jun 7, 2024 | Dana Kavurma is one of the quintessential Turkish dishes, particularly cherished during Kurban Bayrami (Eid al-Adha).

This dish can be best described as braised beef or even confit, as the beef is slowly cooked in its own fat and juices. This age-old and traditional cooking method not only enhances the flavor but also serves as a means to preserve the meat throughout the winter. Alongside its counterpart, lamb kavurma, it remains a beloved classic for every Turkish household.

One of the best accompaniments for Dana Kavurma is the rice pilaf.

Today, we are preparing a simple yet aromatic browned butter rice pilaf, which pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the beef. Additionally, a Shepherd's salad—true to its name—is a basic yet refreshing salad made with chopped vegetables and a hint of acidity, providing a delightful balance to the hearty dish.

For a complete experience, serve Dana Kavurma with some yogurt or ayran (a traditional Turkish yogurt drink). This combination will surely become a favorite on your menu!

"Dana" means beef or calf, while "kavurma" refers to a cooking technique that typically involves frying. However, in the case of this dish, "kavurma" denotes a method more akin to braising, where the meat is cooked slowly in its own juices, resulting in tender and flavorful bites.



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