Rajasthani Spiced Meatballs

Ingredients

In this Rajasthani adaptation, the traditional Turkish Sulu köfte is transformed by incorporating Rajasthani spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. The meatballs are cooked in a tomato-based gravy enriched with yogurt and cream, adding a creamy and tangy element to the dish. These changes infuse the dish with the distinct flavors and characteristics of Rajasthani cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Sulu köfte, so you can check it out.

• For the meatballs: For the meatballs:
• 500g (1.1 lb) ground meat (beef or lamb) 500g (1.1 lb) ground meat (beef or lamb)
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Oil, for frying Oil, for frying
• For the gravy: For the gravy:
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup heavy cream 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic paste 1 teaspoon garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 6g, 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, 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 oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the meatballs until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
4. 4.
   In the same pan, heat ghee and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
5. 5.
   Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
6. 6.
   Add ginger paste and garlic paste. Cook for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
7. 7.
   Add the tomato puree, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook the mixture until the oil separates from the spices.
8. 8.
   Reduce the heat to low and add the yogurt and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
9. 9.
   Gently place the fried meatballs into the gravy. Cover the pan and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
10. 10.
    Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or Indian bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground meat — Use lean ground meat for healthier meatballs. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use a combination of beef and lamb.
• Ghee — If ghee is not available, you can substitute it with vegetable oil or butter.
• Garam masala — If you don't have garam masala, you can make your own by combining equal parts of ground cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, and black pepper.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder according to your taste preference.
• To make the meatballs juicier, you can add a tablespoon of grated onion to the meat mixture.
• If you prefer a smoother gravy, you can blend the onion and tomato puree before adding them to the pan.
• Serve the Rajasthani Spiced Meatballs with a side of raita (yogurt sauce) and naan bread for a complete meal.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop and intensify.

Serving advice

Serve the Rajasthani Spiced Meatballs hot with steamed rice or Indian bread such as naan or roti. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness and color.

Presentation advice

Arrange the meatballs in a shallow serving dish, with the vibrant red gravy generously poured over them. Sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for an appealing touch. Serve with a side of rice or bread, and let the rich aroma and enticing colors of the dish take center stage.