Best 2 Kofta Chalao Recipes

facebook share image   twitter share image   pinterest share image   E-Mail share image

**Kofta Chalao: A Culinary Journey Through Iran and Afghanistan**

Kofta Chalao, a delectable dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its exquisite fusion of flavors, originates from the culinary traditions of Iran and Afghanistan. This dish features succulent meatballs, known as koftas, nestled amidst a bed of aromatic rice, creating a symphony of textures and flavors. The koftas, skillfully crafted with minced meat, onions, herbs, and spices, are meticulously grilled or fried until they achieve a golden-brown perfection. The rice, cooked to fluffy perfection, is infused with the tantalizing flavors of saffron, cumin, and cardamom, resulting in a captivating sensory experience. Kofta Chalao is often adorned with an array of colorful garnishes, such as fresh herbs, crispy onions, and tangy pickles, adding an extra layer of vibrancy and zest to the dish. Whether served as a main course or as part of a lavish feast, Kofta Chalao promises an unforgettable culinary adventure.

**Variations and Accompaniments to Elevate Your Kofta Chalao Experience:**

* **Vegetarian Delight:** Explore the vegetarian version of Kofta Chalao, where the meatballs are replaced with an enticing mixture of vegetables, ensuring a wholesome and flavorful meal.

* **Lamb Kofta:** Indulge in the richness of lamb koftas, where succulent ground lamb is seasoned with aromatic spices, creating a hearty and satisfying dish.

* **Chicken Kofta:** Experience the lighter and healthier option of chicken koftas, where tender chicken mince is combined with herbs and spices, resulting in a delectable and nutritious meal.

* **Stuffed Kofta:** Elevate your Kofta Chalao by stuffing the koftas with a variety of fillings, such as cheese, nuts, or dried fruits, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture.

* **Sauce Symphony:** Enhance the flavors of your Kofta Chalao by serving it with an array of sauces, ranging from tangy tomato sauce to creamy yogurt sauce, allowing diners to customize their dining experience.

* **Complementary Sides:** Accompany your Kofta Chalao with an assortment of side dishes, such as refreshing salads, flavorful pickles, and crispy flatbreads, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Let's cook with our recipes!

AFGHANISTAN: KOFTA CHALLOW



Afghanistan: Kofta Challow image

This recipe is from week two of my food blog, "Travel by Stove." I am attempting to cook one meal from every country in the world, and Afghanistan is my second stop. Kofta Challow is basically lamb meatballs cooked in a flavorful onion-tomato based sauce. It is traditionally served with basmati rice.

Provided by GiddyUpGo

Categories     Curries

Time 1h40m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 lb lamb, minced
1 medium onion, minced
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 egg (whole)
1 tablespoon instant chicken bouillon granules
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups water
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon instant chicken bouillon granules
2 teaspoons paprika
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 tablespoon cumin
2 tablespoons oil (or enough to cover the bottom of a large pot)
2 medium onions, finely chopped

Steps:

  • Put the minced lamb, onions, garlic, egg, powdered chicken stock, coriander and black pepper into a large glass bowl. Mix with your hands until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture will be wet.
  • Shape the mixture into 2-inch meatballs and set aside.
  • Mix the tomato paste and remaining spices with the water until everything is dissolved.
  • Cook the finely-chopped onions in the oil until they are a light to medium brown color. Take care not to burn.
  • Add the water/tomato/spice mixture to the pot. Gently place the meatballs into the water. Try not to let them touch each other. They should be about 2/3rds submerged; if not, add a little more water.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes. Check frequently to make sure the meatballs aren't burning.
  • After 20 minutes, gently turn each meatball over. Replace the lid but leave it cracked so the steam can escape. You want to boil off most of the water, leaving a thick sauce behind.
  • Serve with basmati rice.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 321.9, Fat 20.6, SaturatedFat 6.1, Cholesterol 107.4, Sodium 1865.7, Carbohydrate 14.7, Fiber 3.4, Sugar 4.7, Protein 20.8

KOFTA KABOBS



Kofta Kabobs image

Provided by Food Network

Categories     main-dish

Time 1h10m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

2 pounds lean ground lamb or beef
4 stems parsley
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, roasted, peeled, and chopped
1 teaspoon white pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander, optional
Small pinch clove, optional
5 mint leaves, very finely chopped, optional
Kosher salt
Chile flakes, optional

Steps:

  • In a large bowl, put the ground meat, flattened in the bowl, add all the ingredients. Knead for at least 5 minutes until all is well mixed. Let the kofta rest for 20 to 30 minutes in a cool place to marinate.
  • Wet your hand with water. Take the kofta and make a big cigar. Put on a long skewer, in the center. Repeat skewering until done. Cook over a charcoal grill. Serve hot.

Tips:

  • For the Kofta Chalao, use a combination of ground lamb, beef, and pork for a flavorful and juicy kofta.
  • Season the kofta mixture generously with cumin, coriander, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt for a rich and aromatic flavor.
  • To prevent the kofta from becoming dry, add a small amount of bread crumbs or chickpea flour to the mixture.
  • Shape the kofta into small meatballs and fry them until golden brown and cooked through.
  • For the Chalao, use high-quality basmati rice for a fluffy and fragrant result.
  • Soak the basmati rice for at least 30 minutes before cooking to help it cook evenly.
  • When cooking the rice, use a ratio of 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of water for a perfect texture.
  • Add a bay leaf, cardamom pods, and cloves to the rice while cooking for additional flavor.
  • Garnish the Kofta Chalao with fresh herbs such as cilantro, parsley, or mint for a pop of color and flavor.

Conclusion:

Kofta Chalao is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of succulent kofta meatballs with fluffy basmati rice. By following the tips and instructions provided in this article, you can easily create this classic Afghan dish at home. Serve Kofta Chalao as a main course with a side of yogurt sauce or cucumber raita for a complete and flavorful meal.

Related Topics