Afghan-inspired Meat Pie Barm

Ingredients

The Afghan-inspired Meat Pie Barm differs from the original British Pie Barm in terms of flavors and ingredients. While the British version typically consists of a meat pie served in a bread roll, this Afghan-inspired adaptation incorporates Afghan spices and uses naan bread instead of a traditional roll. The kofta filling adds a unique twist, infusing the dish with rich flavors and a touch of Middle Eastern influence. We alse have the original recipe for Pie Barm, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground lamb or beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground lamb or beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 pieces of naan bread 4 pieces of naan bread
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, ground paprika, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into small patties, about the size of your palm.
3. 3.
   Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Cook the kofta patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned.
4. 4.
   While the kofta patties are cooking, warm the naan bread in a toaster or oven until slightly toasted.
5. 5.
   Once the kofta patties are cooked, place one or two patties inside each piece of naan bread.
6. 6.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
7. 7.
   Serve the Afghan-inspired Meat Pie Barm warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground lamb or beef — Make sure to use lean ground meat for a healthier option. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can mix equal parts of lamb and beef.
• Naan bread — If you can't find naan bread, you can substitute it with pita bread or any other flatbread of your choice.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cardamom or ground cloves to the kofta mixture.
• Serve the Afghan-inspired Meat Pie Barm with a side of yogurt sauce or chutney for a refreshing contrast.
• If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a chopped chili pepper to the kofta mixture.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the kofta patties.
• To make the dish more filling, you can add sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, or pickles to the naan pocket.

Serving advice

Serve the Afghan-inspired Meat Pie Barm as a standalone meal or with a side salad for a complete and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, you can sprinkle some additional ground spices, such as cumin or paprika, on top of the kofta patties before serving. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro for a pop of color.