Panamanian-style Shami Kebab

Ingredients

Panamanian-style Shami Kebabs differ from the original Pakistani version by incorporating local Panamanian ingredients and flavors. The addition of plantains and cilantro gives these kebabs a distinct Panamanian twist, adding freshness and a unique taste to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Shami kebab, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1 ripe plantain, mashed 1 ripe plantain, mashed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, mashed plantain, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped green chilies, and fresh cilantro.
2. 2.
   Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt to the mixture. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. 3.
   Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
5. 5.
   Fry the kebabs in batches until they are golden brown on both sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
6. 6.
   Once cooked, remove the kebabs from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
7. 7.
   Serve the Panamanian-style Shami Kebabs hot with your choice of dipping sauce or alongside rice and salad.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Plantain — Make sure to use ripe plantains for a sweeter flavor and easier mashing.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add more green chilies or red chili powder to the kebab mixture.
• Serve the kebabs with a tangy tamarind chutney or a cooling yogurt sauce for added flavor.
• If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the kebabs in the oven instead of frying them.

Serving advice

Serve the Panamanian-style Shami Kebabs as an appetizer with a side of tamarind chutney or yogurt sauce. Alternatively, they can be enjoyed as a main course alongside steamed rice and a fresh salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Panamanian-style Shami Kebabs on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve them with colorful dipping sauces to enhance the visual appeal of the dish.