Dopiaza

Dopiaza is a South Asian curry dish. The name "dopiaza" literally translates to "two onions", derived from the Persian words "do" (two) and "piaza" (onions). The dish is characterized by its use of onions, which are added at two different stages during cooking, hence the name.

History

The origins of dopiaza can be traced back to the Mughal Empire, where it was a popular dish among the royal court. It is said to have been created by a cook in the court of Emperor Akbar, who accidentally added a large quantity of onions to a dish. The result was a rich and flavorful curry that quickly became a favorite among the Mughals.

Preparation

The preparation of dopiaza involves the use of a variety of spices, including turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The dish typically includes meat, such as lamb or chicken, although vegetarian versions using paneer or vegetables are also common.

The first stage of cooking involves frying one portion of the onions with the spices until they are caramelized. The meat or vegetables are then added and cooked until tender. The second portion of onions is added towards the end of cooking, resulting in a dish with a complex flavor profile, with the sweetness of the caramelized onions contrasting with the sharpness of the raw onions.

Variations

There are many variations of dopiaza across different regions of South Asia. In Bangladesh, for example, dopiaza is often made with fish and is spicier than the versions found in India and Pakistan. In the United Kingdom, dopiaza is a popular dish in Indian restaurants, where it is often made with a tomato-based sauce and served with naan or rice.

See also

• Indian cuisine
• Pakistani cuisine
• Bangladeshi cuisine
• Mughlai cuisine