25. Shami Kebabs

Crispy meat shells filled with a surprise center come together to form these kebabs.

Makes: 20 Kebabs

Prep: 20 mins

Cook: 15 mins

Ingredients:

Meat:

• 2 lb. beef
• 5 cups water
• 1 cup gram lentils, washed through
• ½ cumin powder
• 10 dried red chili pods
• ½ tsp cardamom powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 12 garlic cloves, crushed
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• 1 small piece ginger, finely chopped
• ½ tsp cilantro seeds
• 1 tbsp. yogurt
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt to taste

Filling:

• ½ cup fresh cilantro
• 1 inch piece ginger
• ½ cup fresh mint
• 1 large onion

Directions:

In a large saucepan, combine all the meat ingredients except for the egg. Bring the mixture to a boil. Continue cooking once meat turns tender and is completely cooked through. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

As the meat cooks, prepare the filling. Place all ingredients into a chopper and process till finely chopped. Remove and set aside.

Add in the meat mixture and process until smooth.

Remove into a bowl and add in the beaten egg. Mix well until thoroughly combined.

To start making the kebabs, take about 2 tbsp. of the meat mixture and roll it into a ball. Flatten it lightly and using your finger, create a small indent in the center. Add about a tsp of the filling mixture and cover with the sides, creating a round shape. Flatten to create a thick disk.

Repeat with the rest of the mixture.

To fry the kebabs, heat about 2 tbsp. oil in a frying pan and place kebabs in. Fry on both sides about 2-3 minutes until crispy and golden.

Garnish with cilantro leaves and onion slices and serve.