Yogurt Kofta: A culinary delight that's both refreshing and flavorful, perfect for a hot summer day or a light yet satisfying meal any time. This unique twist on traditional kofta replaces the usual heavy meat-based filling with a creamy, tangy yogurt mixture, resulting in a surprisingly light and delicious dish. The subtle spice blend complements the yogurt beautifully, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Imagine tender, melt-in-your-mouth koftas, bathed in a fragrant yogurt sauce, served with fluffy rice or a crisp salad – a truly satisfying experience.
These delectable Yogurt Koftas are surprisingly easy to make, and we'll guide you through each step of the process, ensuring a perfect result every time. From preparing the yogurt mixture to shaping the koftas and creating the flavorful sauce, this recipe is designed for both novice and experienced cooks. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey as we unveil the secrets to creating these irresistible Yogurt Koftas.
Tools Needed
- Cooker
- Chopper
- Hand beater
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Meat: 0.5 kg
- Lentils: 1 cup (soaked for 2 hours)
- Whole red chilies
- Star anise (badiyan)
- Cinnamon sticks
- White pepper
- Cloves
- Black cardamom
- Black pepper
- Shahi jeera (royal cumin)
- Green cardamom
- Salt: 0.5 tbsp
- Bay leaf: 1
- Garlic and ginger paste: 2 tbsp
- Onions: 2 (roughly chopped)
- Water: 1.5 glasses
- Stone flower
- Chaat masala
- Red chili powder
- Homemade garam masala
- Green chilies
- Grated onion
- Green coriander and mint leaves
- Egg: 1
- Yogurt
- Fresh cream: 1/4 cup
- Coriander and mint leaves (for chutney): 5 leaves each
- Garlic cloves (for chutney)
- Salt (for chutney)
- Roasted cumin seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Kofta Mixture
- Combine all dry spices (red chilies, star anise, cinnamon, white pepper, cloves, black cardamom, black pepper, shahi jeera, green cardamom, salt, bay leaf) in a bowl.
- In a cooker, add meat, lentils, spices, garlic-ginger paste, chopped onions, and water. Cook on medium flame for approximately 20 minutes.
- Once cooked, add stone flower, chaat masala, red chili powder, garam masala, green chilies, grated onion, green coriander, and mint to the mixture.
- Grind the mixture finely using a chopper. The finer the grind, the better the texture.
- Add an egg to the minced meat mixture and mix well with your hands. Refrigerate to allow it to set.
Step 2. Shape and Cook the Koftas
- Shape the mixture into small, round koftas. You can freeze these for later use.
- Shallow fry the koftas in oil until lightly browned on all sides. They should remain slightly raw inside.
Step 3. Make the Yogurt Sauce
- Prepare a chutney by blending green chilies, coriander, mint, garlic, and salt.
- Mix the chutney with yogurt and fresh cream. Beat well until smooth.
Step 4. Assemble and Garnish
- Arrange the fried koftas in a dish, and pour the yogurt mixture over them. Cover completely.
- Fry some green and red chilies in oil and pour this as a seasoning over the koftas. Sprinkle with roasted cumin powder.
Read more: Creamy Cashew Chicken Curry: A Simple Yet Sumptuous Recipe
Tips
- Using a silk stone to grind the meat results in a unique flavor and texture.
- Stone flower helps enhance aroma and prevent acidity.
- Ensure the koftas are firm to maintain their shape during cooking.
- This recipe is perfect for new home cooks.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of yogurt?
Yes! Greek yogurt or even a dairy-free alternative will work, but the taste might vary slightly. Full-fat yogurt is recommended for best texture.
2. How can I make these koftas ahead of time?
You can prepare the kofta mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Shape the koftas just before cooking for the best texture.
This Bakra Eid special Kofta recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic, providing a light and flavorful alternative to traditional richer dishes. Enjoy the refreshing taste and the satisfying experience of creating this unique culinary treat. Happy Bakra Eid!