Authentic Shami Kebab & Meat Cutlet Recipe: A Delicious Fusion of Spices and Meat

                                                             Image by timolina on Freepik


Introduction

Meat cutlets, or sami kebabs, are a traditional Mughlai treat that has been consumed for centuries. Made with minced meat, lentils, and aromatic spices, these tasty, melt-in-your-mouth patties are the ideal addition to your appetizer tray. Shami Kebabs are adored for their delicate texture and rich flavor, whether they are eaten as a snack, in wraps, or with biryani.

We'll teach you how to make real Shami Kebabs (meat cutlets) at home step-by-step in this guide. We'll also give you expert advice on how to make sure your kebabs are tender inside and crispy outside.

What is a meat cutlet, or Shami Kebab?
A mixture of spices, split Bengal gram (chana dal), and ground meat—typically beef or mutton—are the ingredients of the well-known South Asian dish sami kebab. After the mixture is cooked, it is mashed into a paste, formed into patties, and then perfectly shallow-fried. These beef cutlets are a convenient alternative for parties and get-togethers because they are highly tasty and can be prepared ahead of time.

Reasons to Love This Recipe
  • Authentic Taste: Rich in Mughlai tastes and perfectly balanced with spices, this dish has an authentic taste.
  • Freezer-friendly: Prepare a large quantity and keep it for later use.
  • Protein-rich: Packed with vital minerals and protein.
  • Adaptable: Use in a burger, as a side dish, or as an appetizer.

Components of the Kebab Blend:
  • 500g of minced mutton or beef
  • Half a cup of split Bengal gram, or chana dal
  • One medium onion, chopped
  • Four cloves of garlic
  • One inch of minced ginger and two to three chopped green chilies
  • One teaspoon of cumin seeds
  • One teaspoon of powdered coriander
  • Half a teaspoon of powdered turmeric
  • One teaspoon of garam masala
  • One teaspoon of red chili powder, adjusted to personal preference
  • Half a teaspoon of powdered black pepper
  • Add salt to taste.
  • Two cups of water

Regarding Frying and Shaping:
  • One egg (for binding)
  • Half a cup of freshly chopped coriander leaves 
  • Half a cup of freshly chopped mint leaves (optional)
  • Two tablespoons of lemon juice
  • Oil for cooking

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1, prepare the mixture.
  1. After rinsing, soak the chana dal for half an hour.
  2. Add the soaked dal, minced beef, ginger, garlic, onion, green chilies, and all the dry spices to a pan.
  3. Cook over medium heat until the meat is cooked and the water has evaporated, after adding two cups of water. Stir from time to time.
  4. After cooking, allow the mixture to cool fully.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
  1. After cooling, put the ingredients in a food processor and grind it until it becomes a thick, smooth paste. Avoid adding water.
  2. Add a beaten egg, lemon juice, chopped coriander, and mint leaves. To bind everything together, thoroughly mix.
Step 3: Form the Kebabs
  1. Form the ingredients into tiny, round patties using oil-greased hands.
  2. To aid in setting, put them on a tray and chill for half an hour.
Step 4: Fry the kebabs 
  1. In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat.
  2. Carefully flip the kebabs after they are shallow-fried till golden brown on both sides.
  3. Use a paper towel to drain any extra oil.

Serving Recommendations
  • Serve hot with tamarind sauce or mint chutney.
  • For a full dinner, serve with paratha or naan.
  • For a contemporary twist, add them to burgers or kathi rolls.
  • For added taste, garnish with lemon wedges and onion rings.

Tips for Freezing and Storing
  • Refrigeration: Keep cooked kebabs for up to three days in an airtight container. Before serving, reheat in a skillet.
  • Freezing: Place the raw kebabs on a tray and freeze. After they're solid, put them in a ziplock bag. When necessary, fry straight from the freezer

Expert Advice on the Greatest Shami Kebabs
  • Cook until the mixture is dry; too much moisture will cause the kebabs to crumble.
  • Grind thoroughly: Smoother kebabs are produced with a finer paste.
  • Bind with an egg; it will help keep the mixture cohesive.
  • To avoid breakage when cooking, chill before frying.

Frequently Asked Questions
  1. Is chana dal necessary to prepare Shami Kebabs?
    Yes, but the kebabs are bound together and given texture by the chana dal. Breadcrumbs or mashed potatoes might be used in its place.
  2. Can these kebabs be baked or air-fried?
    Of course! Lightly oil them, then bake them for 15 to 20 minutes at 180°C (350°F) or air-fry them for 10 to 12 minutes at 180°C.
  3. Can I substitute chicken for mutton or beef?
    Indeed, chicken Shami Kebabs cook more quickly and are lighter. Adapt the cooking time appropriately.

Concluding remarks
Meat cutlets, also known as sami kebabs, are a classic dish that never goes out of style. Their crispy texture and rich, spicy flavor make them appealing whether you're presenting them at a dinner party or just eating them as a snack. Give this dish a try and share your results in the comments section!

Did you enjoy this recipe? Check out more delectable dishes on Taste Traveller Tales and share them with your friends!

Further Reading
Homemade Chicken Kofta Recipe: A Flavorful Fusion of South Asian and Middle Eastern Culinary Traditions

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