Shami Kabab: A flavorful Indian appetizer

 Shami Kabab is a popular and flavorful Indian appetizer made with minced meat and lentils. Here's a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 250g minced mutton or chicken
• 1/2 cup chana dal (split Bengal gram), soaked for 2 hours
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

• Boil the soaked chana dal until it is soft but not mushy. Drain any excess water.
• In a blender, combine boiled chana dal, minced meat, chopped onions, green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and fresh coriander leaves. Blend until you get a smooth mixture.
• Transfer the mixture to a bowl. If the mixture seems too wet, add a beaten egg for binding.
• Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into round or oval patties.
• Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Shallow fry the kababs until they are golden brown on both sides.
• Drain excess oil on a paper towel.

Serve Shami Kababs hot with mint chutney or as a filling in sandwiches or wraps. These kababs are a delightful addition to any meal or party menu.