Shami Kebab

Simple Shami Kebab Recipe anyone can make at home

A delicious and flavourful dish featuring spiced minced meat, usually lamb or beef, blended with lentils and aromatic spices. These tender patties are shallow-fried to perfection, making them an irresistible treat.

📌 Recipe Details

⏳ Preparation Time: 20-30 minutes (plus soaking time for lentils)
🔥 Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4-6 kebabs

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💫 Ingredients

For the Kebab Mixture:

• 1 cup minced meat (lamb or beef)
• 1/2 cup split Bengal gram (chana dal), washed and soaked for 2-3 hours
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chillies, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves
• 1 egg (optional)
• Oil for frying

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⚖️ Instructions

🌱 Cooking the Lentils:

1. Boil the soaked chana dal with a pinch of salt until soft but not mushy.
2. Drain any excess water and set aside.

🍖 Preparing the Meat Mixture:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, boiled chana dal, chopped onions, green chillies, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt.

🔥 Cooking the Mixture:

1. Transfer the mixture to a pan and cook over medium heat.
2. Stir continuously until the meat is fully cooked and all moisture evaporates (around 15-20 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

🔄 Blending the Mixture:

1. Once cooled, transfer the mixture to a blender.
2. Blend into a smooth paste, adding a little water if necessary.

🥙 Shaping the Kebabs:

1. Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into flat round patties.
2. If desired, beat an egg and dip each kebab into the egg mixture for a crispier coating.

🍳 Frying the Kebabs:

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Shallow-fry the kebabs until golden brown on both sides.
3. Remove and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

Serve the Shami Kebabs hot with mint chutney, tamarind sauce, or yoghurt dip for an extra burst of flavour!

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🌟 Tips for Perfect Shami Kebabs:

• Ensure the chana dal is soft but not overcooked to maintain the right texture.
• Let the mixture cool completely before blending to avoid excess moisture.
• If the mixture feels too soft, add a little gram flour (besan) for better binding.
• Fry on medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning.

Enjoy your homemade Shami Kebabs! 😋