Indulge your senses with the tantalizing flavors of Lamb Kofta Curry with Chickpeas, a dish that transports you straight to the heart of the Middle East! This hearty and aromatic curry is not only a feast for the eyes but also a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With succulent lamb koftas simmered in a rich tomato sauce and paired with protein-packed chickpeas, this recipe promises to impress your family and friends. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Dive into this culinary adventure and discover the secrets to making a mouthwatering lamb kofta curry that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500g ground lamb
- 1 can chickpeas, drained
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground lamb, half of the minced garlic, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until well blended.
- Shape the lamb mixture into small oval-shaped meatballs (koftas), approximately 2 inches long. Set aside on a plate.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Sauté the finely chopped onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add remaining garlic, cumin, coriander, and paprika to the onions. Stir and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to release the spices' aromatics.
- Carefully place the prepared lamb koftas into the pan. Brown them on all sides, turning gently to ensure even cooking, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and drained chickpeas. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer, allowing the koftas to cook through and the sauce to thicken.
- Cover the pan and let the curry cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check the internal temperature of the koftas to ensure they reach 160°F (71°C). Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the curry rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or warm flatbread to complement the rich, spicy curry.
Tips
- Mix Well: When combining the lamb and spices, use your hands to ensure an even distribution of flavors. This will enhance the taste of your koftas.
- Shape Uniformly: For even cooking, make sure your koftas are all roughly the same size—aim for about 2 inches long.
- Sauté with Care: When browning the koftas, be gentle to avoid breaking them apart. A non-stick skillet can help with this process.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the curry to simmer on low heat. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully while keeping the koftas tender.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your dish before serving! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your palate.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness—don’t skip this final touch!
- Serve with Style: Pair your curry with steamed rice or warm flatbread to soak up the delicious sauce and create a well-rounded meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 110mg
