Lahori Pseftopetinos

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we have replaced the traditional Greek lamb with ground chicken, which is commonly used in Lahori cuisine. The Lahori spices, such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala, have been incorporated to infuse the meatballs with the distinct flavors of the region. Additionally, the tomato-based sauce adds a touch of Lahori tanginess to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Pseftopetinos, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground chicken 500g (1.1 lb) ground chicken
• 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 teaspoon garam masala 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons bread crumbs 2 tablespoons bread crumbs
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic paste 1 teaspoon garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, chopped cilantro, bread crumbs, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until golden brown.
4. 4.
   Add the chopped tomatoes, ginger paste, garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. 5.
   Reduce the heat to low and add the plain yogurt to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
6. 6.
   Gently place the chicken meatballs into the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
7. 7.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground chicken — Ensure that the ground chicken is fresh and properly refrigerated before use.
• Garam masala — Use a good quality garam masala for the best flavor. You can also make your own by grinding together cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and black peppercorns.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder according to your taste preference.
• Serve Lahori Pseftopetinos with naan or rice for a complete meal.
• You can make the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the tomato mixture before adding the yogurt.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the meatballs.

Serving advice

Serve Lahori Pseftopetinos hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Accompany it with naan bread or steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the meatballs in a shallow serving dish, with the vibrant tomato-based sauce generously poured over them. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. Serve with a side of naan bread or rice to complete the presentation.