Kofte in curry sauce

Kofte in curry sauce - A flavorful and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Introduction:

Welcome to the fascinating world of intense flavors and delicious textures! Today, I invite you to discover a recipe for Kofte in curry sauce, a dish that combines simple ingredients with exotic spices, bringing a touch of magic to your plate. Kofte, these delicious meatballs, have a long history and are appreciated in many cultures for their versatility. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer or a main course, these meatballs are sure to win you over.

Ingredients:

- 250 grams lentils (preferably green or red lentils)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala (an aromatic spice blend)
- 400 grams lean ground beef, organic
- 1 tablespoon oil (for frying)
- 300 grams rice (preferably basmati rice)
- 5 cardamom seeds
- 200 grams green beans, pods
- 3 tomatoes (ripe, for a delicious sauce)
- 5 cm fresh ginger (chopped)
- 2 green onions (for added freshness)
- ½ chili (or to taste)
- Fresh coriander (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon honey (to balance the flavors)
- 2 teaspoons Rogan Josh curry paste (for an authentic taste)
- 200 ml skimmed coconut milk
- 4 tablespoons skimmed yogurt, organic
- Lemon slices (for serving)

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the lentils and meat:
In a large bowl, mix the lentils (preferably boiled or soaked) with salt, pepper, and garam masala. Then, add the ground beef and mix well until the ingredients are fully combined. This mixture will form the base of the delicious kofte.

2. Shaping the kofte:
Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into elongated meatballs, similar to thick fingers. They will be fragile at first, but don’t worry; they will firm up during cooking.

3. Frying the kofte:
In a skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Fry the kofte for a few minutes until they become golden and crispy on the outside. Ensure they are cooked through without burning. This step will give them the perfect texture.

4. Cooking the rice:
Meanwhile, boil the rice with the cardamom seeds in a pot of salted water. Basmati rice is ideal as it absorbs flavors and becomes fluffy. Cook according to the package instructions until soft.

5. Preparing the curry sauce:
In a blender, add the tomatoes, chopped ginger, green onions, chili, coriander, turmeric, honey, curry paste, and coconut milk. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy sauce. This sauce will bring a rich flavor to your dish.

6. Simmering the sauce:
Transfer the sauce to a skillet and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer on low, stirring occasionally. Add salt and pepper to taste.

7. Finishing the dish:
Add the green beans to the curry sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes. Then, introduce the kofte into the sauce and let them soak in the curry flavors for 1-2 minutes.

8. Serving:
Serve these delicious kofte with fluffy rice, a spoonful of organic yogurt for a creamy contrast, fresh coriander leaves, and lemon slices for a touch of freshness. This combination of flavors will delight your taste buds!

Practical tips:

- About lentils: Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making this dish a healthy choice. If you want to save time, you can use canned lentils.
- Spices: Garam masala is a spice mix that varies from region to region. You can adjust it according to personal preferences. If you don’t have garam masala on hand, a combination of cinnamon, cloves, and cumin might work well.
- Rice: You can experiment with different types of rice. Jasmine rice can add a floral flavor, while brown rice will provide extra fiber.
- Variations: For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with tofu or mushrooms, and for a spicy touch, add more chili.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of meat? Of course! This recipe works well with chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter option.
- How can I store the kofte? Kofte can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the curry sauce will improve in flavor as it cools.
- Can I freeze this dish? Yes! This dish freezes very well. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

Nutritional values per serving (approx.):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 10 g

Serving suggestions:
This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or a refreshing drink like mint tea or citrus juice, which will complement the curry flavors. It can also be served with warm naan or pita to soak up the delicious sauce.

I conclude by encouraging you to experiment and enjoy the cooking process. Kofte in curry sauce is not just a dish; it is a culinary experience that brings people and stories together. Savor every moment and don’t forget to share the result with your loved ones! Bon appétit!