Kofta

 

Shami Kofta

 Shami Kofta 

 Shami Kofta is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines spiced minced meat with a variety of herbs and spices, shaped into balls or patties and cooked in a rich gravy. It’s known for its tender texture and deep, complex flavors.  

Specialty of Shami Kofta 

The unique feature of Shami Kofta lies in its preparation: the meat is usually cooked with lentils and spices, then ground into a smooth paste, shaped, and simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce. This dish is a popular choice for special occasions and festive gatherings due to its rich taste and elegant presentation. 

  Recipe for Shami Kofta 

 Ingredients 

 For the Kofta: 

•  500 grams minced meat (beef or lamb) 
•  100 grams chana dal (Bengal gram) 
•  1 large onion, finely chopped 
•  2-3 green chilies, finely chopped 
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste 
•  1 teaspoon cumin seeds 
•  1 teaspoon coriander seeds 
•  1/2 teaspoon black pepper 
•  1/2 teaspoon garam masala 
•  1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 
•  Salt to taste 
•  Fresh coriander leaves, chopped 
•  Fresh mint leaves, chopped 
•  Oil for frying 
•  For the Gravy: 
• 2 tablespoons oil 
•  1 large onion, finely sliced 
•  2 large tomatoes, pureed 
•  1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste 
•  1 teaspoon cumin seeds 
•  1 teaspoon coriander powder 
•  1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste) 
•  1/2 teaspoon garam masala 
• Salt to taste 
•  Fresh coriander leaves for garnish 

 Instructions 

 1.Prepare the Kofta: 

   Cook the chana dal in water until soft. Drain and set aside. 

   In a pan, heat a little oil and sauté onions until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and cook for another 2 minutes. 

    Add cumin seeds, coriander seeds, black pepper, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. 

  In a food processor, combine minced meat, cooked chana dal, sautéed mixture, and fresh herbs. Grind to a smooth paste. 

   Shape the mixture into small balls or patties and shallow fry them in oil until golden brown. Set aside. 

 2. Prepare the Gravy: 

   Heat oil in a pan and sauté the sliced onions until golden brown. 

   Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute. Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates. 

    Add cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook the masala until well blended. 

  Gently place the koftas into the gravy and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the koftas to absorb the flavors. 

 Sprinkle garam masala and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. 

 3.Serve:   

Serve Shami Kofta hot with naan, roti, or rice. 

 Restaurants in Pakistan where Shami Kofta is Available 

 1. Karachi: 

  Sakura: Known for its diverse menu and quality dishes. 

  The Royal Rodale: Offers a range of traditional and contemporary dishes. 

   Café Flo: Popular for its exquisite Pakistani cuisine. 

 2. Lahore: 

  Monal Lahore: Offers a variety of traditional Pakistani dishes. 

   Café Aylanto: Known for its fine dining experience and diverse menu. 

  Haveli Restaurant: Famous for its traditional Pakistani food, including Shami Kofta. 

  

3. Islamabad: 

  Des Pardes:   Offers a traditional Pakistani dining experience. 

  Khiva Restaurant: Known for its authentic Pakistani cuisine. 

The Royal Grill: Offers a range of traditional dishes including Shami Kofta. 

 Enjoy preparing and tasting this delightful dish! 

 

Malai Kofta

Malai Kofta 

 Malai Kofta is a popular North Indian dish known for its rich and creamy texture. It consists of deep-fried dumplings (koftas) made from a mixture of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and sometimes potatoes, which are then simmered in a luxurious, spiced gravy. The dish is a celebration of flavors and textures, combining the smooth, delicate koftas with a tangy, creamy tomato-based sauce. It is often enjoyed as a special treat during festive occasions and is a staple in many Indian restaurants. The word "malai" refers to cream, highlighting the dish's rich, indulgent nature. 

 Malai Kofta Recipe 

Ingredients: 

 For the Koftas: 

• 200g paneer (cottage cheese), grated 
• 2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed 
•  1-2 green chilies, finely chopped 
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated 
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves 
•  2 tbsp all-purpose flour (maida) 
•  1 tsp garam masala 
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds 
•  Salt to taste 
•  Oil for deep frying 
• For the Gravy: 
•  2 large tomatoes, pureed 
•  1 large onion, finely chopped 
• 1/2 cup heavy cream 
•  1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste 
•  1 tsp cumin seeds 
•  1 tsp coriander powder 
•  1/2 tsp turmeric powder 
•  1 tsp red chili powder 
• 1/2 tsp garam masala 
• 1/4 tsp fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) 
• Salt to taste 
• 2 tbsp oil or ghee 
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish 

  Instructions: 

 1. Prepare the Koftas: 

 In a bowl, combine grated paneer, mashed potatoes, chopped green chilies, ginger, coriander leaves, garam masala, and all-purpose flour. Mix well. 

  Form the mixture into small, smooth balls. 

   Heat oil in a pan and deep-fry the koftas until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and set aside. 

2.Prepare the Gravy: 

    Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle. 

  Add finely chopped onions and cook until golden brown. 

   Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute. 

    Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture. 

   Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for a few more minutes. 

   Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream. Cook until the gravy thickens. 

    Add fenugreek leaves and garam masala. Mix well. 

 3. Combine: 

  Gently place the koftas into the gravy. Cook on low heat for a few minutes, allowing the koftas to soak up the flavors of the sauce. 

 4. Garnish and Serve: 

    Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with naan, roti, or rice. 

Restaurants in Pakistan Where Malai Kofta is Available 

 While Malai Kofta is primarily a North Indian dish, it can be found in various restaurants in Pakistan that offer Indian or Mughlai cuisine. Here are some places you might find it: 

 1. Monal Restaurant (Islamabad): Known for its diverse menu and high-quality food, Monal often includes Indian dishes like Malai Kofta in its offerings. 

 2. Tandoor Restaurant (Lahore): A popular spot for Mughlai and Indian cuisine, Tandoor Restaurant serves a variety of rich and flavorful dishes, including Malai Kofta. 

 3. Kolachi (Karachi):A well-regarded restaurant offering a range of dishes, including Indian specialties. They may have Malai Kofta on their menu. 

4.Salt Bae Restaurant (Karachi): Known for its diverse international menu, this restaurant sometimes includes Indian dishes like Malai Kofta. 

 5.The Royal Elephant (Karachi): Offers a mix of Indian and Pakistani cuisine, including rich dishes like Malai Kofta. 

 

Nargisi Kofta

 Nargisi Kofta 

 Nargisi Kofta is a rich and flavorful dish originating from the Mughlai cuisine of India and Pakistan. The name "Nargisi" means "narcissus" or "daffodil" in Persian, and it reflects the dish’s appearance, which resembles the flower.  

Specialty of Nargisi Kofta 

The specialty of Nargisi Kofta lies in its unique preparation method where spiced minced meat is wrapped around a boiled egg, forming a kofta (meatball) that is then simmered in a spiced gravy. The combination of tender meat, aromatic spices, and the surprise of a whole egg inside makes this dish both visually appealing and delicious. 

  Recipe for Nargisi Kofta 

 Ingredients: 

 For Kofta: 

• 500 grams minced beef or lamb 
•  1 large onion, finely chopped 
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped 
•  1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste 
•  1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (coriander leaves) 
•  1 teaspoon cumin powder 
•  1 teaspoon coriander powder 
•  1 teaspoon garam masala 
•  1 teaspoon red chili powder 
•  1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 
• Salt to taste 
•  6-8 boiled eggs, peeled 
•  For Gravy: 
•  2 large onions, finely chopped 
•  2 tomatoes, pureed 
•  1/2 cup yogurt, beaten 
•  1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste 
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 
•  1 teaspoon garam masala 
•  1 teaspoon red chili powder 
•  1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 
•  Salt to taste 
•  2 tablespoons oil or ghee 
• Fresh cilantro for garnish 

 Instructions: 

 1. Prepare the Kofta: 

   1. In a bowl, combine minced meat, chopped onions, green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, cilantro, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well. 

   2. Divide the mixture into 8-10 portions. Flatten each portion and place a boiled egg in the center. Carefully wrap the meat around the egg and shape it into a ball. Repeat with all eggs. 

 2.Fry the Kofta: 

   1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the koftas until they are browned on all sides. Remove and set aside. 

 3.Prepare the Gravy: 

   1. In the same pan, add cumin seeds and let them splutter. 

   2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. 

   3. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute. 

   4. Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates. 

   5. Stir in the yogurt and cook for a few minutes. 

   6. Add coriander powder, garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well. 

   7. Add a cup of water and bring to a boil. 

 4. Simmer Kofta: 

   1. Gently place the fried koftas into the simmering gravy. Cover and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the koftas are cooked through and the flavors are well blended. 

 5. Garnish and Serve: 

   1. Garnish with fresh cilantro. 

   2. Serve hot with naan or rice. 

 Restaurants in Pakistan Where Nargisi Kofta is Available 

 1. Café Zouk Known for its diverse menu, including Mughlai specialties like Nargisi Kofta. 

   Location: Karachi 

  2. Siddique Kabab House Offers a variety of traditional Pakistani dishes, including Nargisi Kofta. 

   Location: Lahore 

 3. Pakistani Restaurant Serves a range of traditional dishes, including this flavorful kofta. 

   Location: Islamabad 

 4. Monal Restaurant A popular spot with a diverse menu that features classic Pakistani dishes. 

   Location: Islamabad 

 5. Chandani Chowk A restaurant that offers Mughlai cuisine, including Nargisi Kofta. 

  Location: Karachi 

  

Kashmiri Kofta

 Kashmiri Kofta 

 Kashmiri Kofta is a rich and aromatic dish from the Kashmir region, known for its delicate flavors and luxurious texture.  

 Specialty of Kashmiri Kofta 

1. Unique Ingredients: The koftas (meatballs) are typically made from minced meat, often mixed with various spices and sometimes combined with dried fruits like apricots or almonds for added flavor and texture. 

  2. Rich Gravy: The dish is served in a creamy, flavorful gravy that includes ingredients like yogurt, cream, and a variety of spices. The gravy is often seasoned with saffron, which gives it a distinctive golden color and a subtle, aromatic flavor. 

  3. Subtle Spice: Kashmiri Kofta is known for its milder, yet rich spice profile compared to other regional dishes. The spices are used in a balanced way to enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish. 

 4. Slow Cooking: The dish is usually slow-cooked to ensure that the koftas are tender and the flavors of the gravy meld together perfectly. 

  Recipe for Kashmiri Kofta 

 Ingredients: 

 For the Koftas: 

• 500 grams minced meat (beef or lamb) 
•  1 large onion, finely chopped 
•  2-3 green chilies, finely chopped 
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste 
•  1 tablespoon chopped fresh coriander leaves 
•  1/2 teaspoon garam masala 
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 
•  1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 
•  1/2 teaspoon cumin powder 
•  1 tablespoon rice flour or besan (gram flour) 
• Salt to taste 
•  Oil for frying 
•  For the Gravy: 
•  1 large onion, finely chopped 
•  1 cup yogurt 
•  1/2 cup cream 
•  2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste 
•  1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 
•  1 teaspoon red chili powder 
•  1 teaspoon coriander powder 
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 
•  1/2 teaspoon garam masala 
•  1/2 teaspoon saffron strands (optional) 
•  Salt to taste 
• Oil for cooking 

Instructions: 

 1.Prepare the Koftas: 

   1. In a large bowl, combine minced meat, chopped onions, green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, coriander leaves, garam masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, rice flour or besan, and salt. 

   2. Mix thoroughly and shape the mixture into small balls. 

   3. Heat oil in a pan and fry the koftas until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels. 

 2. Prepare the Gravy: 

   1. In the same pan, heat some oil and sauté the chopped onions until golden brown. 

   2. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute. 

   3. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Cook for a few minutes until the spices are well-blended and the oil starts to separate. 

   4. Lower the heat and gradually add yogurt, stirring continuously to prevent curdling. 

   5. Cook for a few minutes until the yogurt is well incorporated. 

   6. Add cream and saffron strands (if using). Stir and cook for a few more minutes. 

   7. Gently add the fried koftas to the gravy and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the koftas to soak up the flavors. 

 3. Serve: 

   Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with naan, roti, or rice. 

 Restaurants in Pakistan Where Kashmiri Kofta is Available 

 1. Savour Foods (Various Locations) 

 Known for a variety of traditional dishes, including Kashmiri cuisine. 

 2. Monal (Islamabad) 

  Offers a range of traditional dishes, including some regional specialties from Kashmir. 

 3. Dawat-e-Kashmir (Karachi) 

   Specializes in Kashmiri and other regional cuisines, offering dishes like Kashmiri Kofta. 

 4. Chotu Chaiwala (Lahore) 

   Features a variety of traditional and regional dishes, including Kashmiri delicacies. 

 5. Kashmiri Tea House (Rawalpindi) 

    Focuses on authentic Kashmiri dishes, including Kashmiri Kofta.