Recipe - Mutton Shami Kebab: A Savory Delight With An Irresistible Blend Of Flavors

Mutton Shami Kebab is a delicious and popular meal from the Indian subcontinent. These tender kebabs are cooked with minced mutton and a mix of flavorful spices, lentils, and herbs. The end product is a melt-in-your-mouth kebab with the right flavour balance. In this article, we will guide you through the preparation and cooking process of Mutton Shami Kebab, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for you and your loved ones.

Preparation time: Approximately 30 minutes
Cooking time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Makes: 15-20 kebabs

Ingredients

500 grams minced mutton
1 cup Bengal gram lentils (chana dal), soaked for 2 hours
1 onion, finely chopped
4 green chilies, finely chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
2 teaspoons red chili powder
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon garam masala powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro leaves
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
Salt to taste
4 cups water
Vegetable oil for frying

Method

- Drain the soaked Bengal gram lentils (chana dal) and transfer them to a pressure cooker. Add 4 cups of water and cook on medium heat for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced mutton, cooked lentils, chopped onion, green chilies, minced garlic, grated ginger, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, chopped cilantro leaves, and chopped mint leaves. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

- Transfer the mixture to a food processor and blend until it forms a smooth paste. You can leave some texture if desired.

- Take a small portion of the mixture and shape it into a round or oval kebab patty. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture.

- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the kebabs into the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd them.

- Cook the kebabs for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

- Remove the kebabs from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

- Serve the Mutton Shami Kebabs hot as an appetizer or as a side dish with mint chutney or yogurt dip.

Note: If you prefer a healthier option, you can also bake the kebabs in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown.