Shami Kebab is a popular Indian appetizer that originated in the city of Lucknow, in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. It is a type of kebab made with ground meat and lentils that are blended together with a variety of spices, formed into small patties, and then shallow-fried until they are crispy and golden brown. The dish is typically served with a side of mint chutney and onion rings.
The term “Shami” means “evening” in Urdu and the dish is said to have been created during the Mughal era in India, specifically during the reign of the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan. The dish was originally made with buffalo meat and was intended to be a nutritious and filling snack for soldiers who needed sustenance after a long day of fighting.
To make Shami Kebab, ground meat, typically lamb or beef, is mixed with lentils, such as chana dal or split peas, and a variety of spices, including ginger, garlic, coriander, cumin, garam masala, and chili powder. The mixture is then cooked with water until the lentils are tender and the meat is fully cooked. The mixture is then blended together to create a smooth and uniform texture.
The blended mixture is then shaped into small patties, coated in beaten egg, and shallow-fried in a pan until they are crispy and golden brown on both sides. The use of ghee, which is clarified butter, adds richness and flavor to the dish.
Shami Kebab is a dish that is often served at parties and festive occasions in India. It is a favorite among food lovers and is enjoyed with friends and family. The dish can be served as a starter or as a main course with rice or naan bread.
Shami Kebab is a high-protein dish that is rich in nutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. The lentils used in the dish provide additional fiber and vitamins. It is a healthy and nutritious dish that is perfect for meat lovers.
Overall, Shami Kebab is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its crispy and crunchy texture, combined with the aromatic and flavorful spices used in the mixture, make it a favorite among food lovers around the world. So, next time you’re looking for a tasty and satisfying snack, give Shami Kebab a try and enjoy the taste of Lucknow!
Ingredients
- 500 g minced meat chicken / mutton / lamb
- 1 cup chana dal split chickpeas, soaked in water for 2 hours
- 1 large onion chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic chopped
- 1- inch piece ginger chopped
- 2-3 green chillies chopped
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp garam masala powder
- 1 tsp red chilli powder
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Drain the chana dal and put it in a pressure cooker along with the minced meat, onion, garlic, ginger, green chillies, and enough water to cover the ingredients. Cook for 4-5 whistles or until the meat and dal are tender.
- Drain any excess water and allow the mixture to cool.
- Once cooled, grind the mixture into a smooth paste.
- Add the cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, red chilli powder, and salt to the paste and mix well.
- Divide the mixture into equal-sized portions and shape them into flat discs.
- Heat oil in a pan and fry the kebabs on medium heat until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve hot with mint chutney.
