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Shami Kebab Recipe

Shami Kebab

Tender, spiced minced meat and lentil patties shallow-fried until crisp on the outside.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients
  

Simmering Ingredients
  • 500 grams minced meat Lamb, mutton, or lean beef
  • 1/2 cup chana dal Split Bengal gram, rinsed and drained
  • 1 medium onion Sliced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 3 whole dried red chilies
  • 1 inch cinnamon stick
  • 3 whole cloves
  • 3 whole green cardamom pods
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste
  • 1 cup water For simmering
Binding and Frying
  • 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves Finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves Finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons cooking oil For shallow frying

Equipment

  • 1 Heavy-bottomed pot Used for simmering the meat and lentils.
  • 1 Food processor or grinder Used to grind the cooked mixture into a smooth paste.
  • 1 Skillet Used for shallow frying the patties.

Method
 

  1. In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine the minced meat, rinsed chana dal, sliced onion, ginger-garlic paste, dried red chilies, cinnamon stick, cloves, green cardamom pods, cumin seeds, salt, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat and lentils are completely tender.
  3. Remove the lid and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until all excess liquid has completely evaporated and the mixture is dry.
  4. Remove whole spices if easily visible. Transfer the cooked mixture to a food processor and grind into a thick, smooth paste without adding any water.
  5. Transfer the paste to a bowl, mix in the chopped coriander leaves, mint leaves, and lemon juice. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into round, flat patties.
  6. Heat cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the patties in the pan and fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side until crisp and golden brown.

Notes

Ensure the mixture is completely dry before grinding so the patties hold their shape during frying.