PakistaniMasoor Daal with TarkaRed lentils simmered until silky, then finished with a sizzling tarka of cumin, garlic and dried chilies. Weeknight comfort for very little money.35 min·Serves 4
AmericanFluffy Yogurt PancakesThick, fluffy buttermilk-style pancakes made with yogurt and milk, so there is no need to buy buttermilk.25 min·Serves 4
PakistaniBeef NihariBeef shank slow-cooked in a spiced gravy thickened with toasted flour. A weekend project that mostly cooks itself.4 h 30 min·Serves 6
IndianChana MasalaChickpeas in a dark, tangy onion-tomato masala with amchur and garam masala. Pantry cooking at its best.40 min·Serves 4