Kashmiri-style Orecchiette with Spiced Lamb

Ingredients

In this Kashmiri adaptation of Orecchiette alla barese, we incorporate Kashmiri spices such as fennel, cardamom, and cinnamon to infuse the dish with the flavors of the Kashmiri cuisine. Additionally, we serve the pasta with a tangy yogurt sauce, which is a common accompaniment in Kashmiri cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Orecchiette alla barese, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8 oz) orecchiette pasta 250g (8.8 oz) orecchiette pasta
• 300g (10.6 oz) lamb, minced 300g (10.6 oz) lamb, minced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground fennel 1 teaspoon ground fennel
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the orecchiette pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the minced lamb to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
4. 4.
   Stir in the ground fennel, cardamom, cinnamon, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
5. 5.
   Add the cooked orecchiette pasta to the pan and toss well to coat the pasta with the spiced lamb mixture.
6. 6.
   Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well combined.
7. 7.
   Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
8. 8.
   Serve hot with a side of tangy yogurt sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Orecchiette pasta — Cook the pasta until al dente to ensure it retains its texture and doesn't become mushy.
• Ground fennel — Toasting the ground fennel in a dry pan for a minute before adding it to the dish will enhance its flavor.
• Lamb — Use lean lamb mince for a healthier option, or trim excess fat before cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder according to your preference.
• Serve the dish with a side of Kashmiri naan or roti for a complete meal.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of ground spices used in the recipe.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a tangy twist.
• Experiment with different garnishes such as sliced almonds or pomegranate seeds for added texture and flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Kashmiri-style Orecchiette with Spiced Lamb hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Accompany it with a side of tangy yogurt sauce and Kashmiri naan or roti for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Present the dish by arranging the orecchiette pasta and spiced lamb mixture on a large serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. Serve the tangy yogurt sauce in a separate bowl on the side. This visually appealing presentation will entice your guests to dig in.