Peshawari Rosh/Namkeen Gosht Recipe
Introduction
One of the first dishes that comes to mind when thinking about the cuisine of Pakistan’s Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa region is Peshawari Rosh, or Namkeen Gosht. It’s a traditional meat dish that emphasizes the natural flavor of the meat, using very minimal spices. The focus is on preserving the authentic taste, aroma, and tenderness of the meat. (smartcookblog.com)
Origin
Peshawari Rosh originates from the city of Peshawar in Pakistan, which is a cultural heartland of Pashtun traditions. Traditionally, Pashtun households prepare meat with very few spices to highlight its true flavor. This dish is now popular not only in Pakistan but also worldwide, especially in Pakistani and Afghan restaurants. (smartcookblog.com)

Why Try Peshawari Rosh?
- Authentic Taste: Made with minimal spices, the natural taste of the meat remains intact.
- Nutritious: Mutton or beef is rich in protein, iron, and essential vitamins.
- Easy to Cook: Requires few ingredients—great for beginners.
- Suitable for Celebrations: Perfect for Eid, family gatherings, or hosting special guests.
- Versatile Pairing: Goes wonderfully with rice, naan, pulao, roti, or paratha. (smartcookblog.com)
Today I will tell you how to make the Peshawari Rosh/Namkeen Gosht recipe easily.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 kg mutton or beef (with bone and fat)
- 4 medium onions whole
- 4 cloves garlic whole
- A 3-inch piece of ginger, sliced
- 1 teaspoon whole black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon oil or ghee (optional)
- 4 naga chilies (or 6–7 green chilies if unavailable)
- Water as needed to make the gravy
- 4 tomatoes whole
- 4 medium potatoes (optional)
- Cilantro (coriander leaves) for garnish (optional) (smartcookblog.com)
Cooking Steps
- Marinate
Rub salt over the meat and let it marinate for 30 minutes in a pot or heavy pan. - Add Ingredients & Sauté
Add the remaining ingredients (onions, garlic, ginger, pepper, chilies, tomatoes, and potatoes if using). Mix well. Sauté on medium heat for 3–4 minutes. - Add Water & Cook
Add enough water to submerge the meat. Cover and simmer on low heat for at least 2 hours. (If using a pressure cooker, 30 minutes may suffice.) Stir occasionally. (smartcookblog.com) - Final Touch
Once the meat is tender, adjust the gravy’s consistency to your liking—it can be thick or thin. - Serve
Garnish with chopped cilantro and ginger slices, and serve hot. (smartcookblog.com)

Serving Suggestions
- Serve with naan, tandoori bread, or hot rice.
- Accompany with salad, pickles, or yogurt raita.
- Excellent for festive or special-occasion meals alongside pulao or biryani. (smartcookblog.com)
Usage & Occasions
- Family feasts: A must-have for gatherings or celebrations.
- Everyday meal: Equally satisfying with rice or bread for regular meals.
- Restaurant menus: Frequently featured in Pakistani restaurants.
- Cultural experience: A perfect way to explore the authentic flavors of Pashtun cuisine. (smartcookblog.com)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken instead of mutton or beef?
A: Yes, but the authentic taste is achieved best with mutton or beef. Chicken cooks faster but differs in flavor. (smartcookblog.com)
Q2: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A: Stored in an airtight container, it keeps well for 2–3 days in the refrigerator.
Q3: How does this differ from curry?
A: Curry uses many spices and bold flavors, while Peshawari Meat uses very few spices to highlight the natural flavor of the meat.
Cooking Tips
- Use bone-in, fatty cuts for richer gravy.
- Cook slowly on low heat to preserve flavor.
- Garnish with ginger slices and cilantro for freshness. (smartcookblog.com)

Conclusion
Peshawari Rosh—or Namkeen Gosht—is a beautiful representation of Pashtun culinary heritage. With minimal spices and slow cooking, it brings out the meat’s natural flavors. Whether for festive gatherings or a cozy meal, it always impresses. One bite, and this delicious dish will leave a lasting impression. (smartcookblog.com)