Introduction
This delicious recipe combines the robust flavors of garam masala with lean meats and crunchy vegetables to create a mouthwatering meal. With a medley of textures, from juicy koftas to fluffy flatbreads and a vibrant salad, this dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner. Easy to prepare, it brings out the best of fresh ingredients and spices, making it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their culinary skills.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 x 400g tin of chickpeas
100g luxury fruit and nut mix
2 teaspoons garam masala, plus extra to serve
1 large free-range egg
250g lean higher-welfare beef mince
250g lean higher-welfare pork mince
Olive oil
300g self-raising flour
1kg mixed crunchy vegetables (e.g., red onion, cabbage, onion, baby gem, radishes, broccoli stalks, cucumber)
1 tablespoon wholegrain mustard
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
Extra virgin olive oil
4 tablespoons Greek yoghurt
2 teaspoons chilli oil
½ a bunch of fresh mint (15g)
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat the grill to high.
Step 2: Prepare the Chickpea Mixture
Drain the chickpeas and blitz half in a food processor with the luxury fruit and nut mix, 2 teaspoons of garam masala, and a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Crack in the egg, add the lean higher-welfare beef and pork mince, and pulse until well combined.
Step 3: Shape the Koftas
Divide the mixture into four equal-sized pieces on a piece of greaseproof paper. Shape each piece into a kofta, approximately 20cm in length, and use your fingertips to create dents along the surface to enhance texture as they cook.
Step 4: Grill the Koftas
Lay the shaped koftas across an oiled tray and grill for 10 minutes, or until they are golden, gnarly, and cooked through. Make sure to turn them halfway through cooking. Once done, remove them to a board to rest.
Step 5: Make the Flatbreads
On a clean work surface, pile the self-raising flour, create a well in the center, and add a pinch of salt, 150ml of water, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Use a fork to combine the ingredients, then knead the mixture into a smooth dough. Divide the dough into four pieces and roll each into even-sized rounds (approximately 18-20cm) on a flour-dusted surface. Cover the rounds with a clean, damp tea towel and set aside.
Step 6: Prepare the Chopped Salad
Finely chop the mixed crunchy vegetables on a large board. Create a well in the center of the chopped vegetables, then add the wholegrain mustard and white wine vinegar, along with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Mix the dressing into the vegetables and toss everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
Step 7: Prepare the Yogurt Dressing
In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with the chilli oil, adding a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 8: Cook the Flatbreads
Place a large non-stick frying pan on low heat and cook the flatbreads one at a time for about 2 minutes, turning halfway, until they puff up and become golden. Stack the cooked flatbreads in a tea towel to keep them warm.
Step 9: Assemble and Serve
When ready to eat, transfer the chopped salad to a serving platter or keep it on the large board. Scatter over the remaining chickpeas, sprinkle with a pinch of garam masala, and tear over the fresh mint leaves. Lay the grilled koftas on top, dollop the chilli-rippled yogurt over them, scatter the reserved baby mint leaves, and serve alongside the warm flatbreads.
Notes
Ingredients Variations
Feel free to substitute the mixed crunchy vegetables with your favorite seasonal vegetables for added freshness and flavor.
Kofta Cooking Tips
Ensure that the koftas are uniform in size for even cooking.
Flatbread Storage
If you have leftover flatbreads, store them in an airtight container to maintain their softness.
Vegetarian Option
To make a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more chickpeas or grated vegetables to the kofta mixture.
Cook techniques
Blitzing Ingredients
Use a food processor to blitz chickpeas along with fruit, nuts, and spices until a paste is formed. This technique helps combine flavors and creates a uniform texture for the kofta mixture.
Shaping Koftas
Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into long koftas. Use your fingertips to create dents in the surface, which helps them crisp up during grilling.
Grilling
Grill the koftas on an oiled tray until they are golden and cooked through, turning them halfway through for even cooking. This method enhances flavor and texture.
Making Flatbreads
Create a dough by combining flour, salt, water, and olive oil. Knead until smooth, then roll into rounds. This technique results in soft, fluffy flatbreads.
Chopping Vegetables
Finely chop mixed crunchy vegetables for the salad. Evenly chopped vegetables ensure a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
Mixing Salad Dressing
Combine mustard, vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil for dressing. This emulsifies the ingredients, allowing for a well-blended flavor enhancement for the salad.
Cooking Flatbreads
Cook flatbreads in a non-stick frying pan until they are puffed and golden. This technique keeps them warm and soft.
Serving
Arrange the salad on a platter and top with koftas, dollops of yogurt, and fresh mint. This creates an appealing presentation that enhances the dining experience.
FAQ
Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?
Yes, using canned chickpeas is convenient and recommended for this recipe, as they’re already cooked.
What can I substitute for garam masala?
If you don’t have garam masala, you can use a mix of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon as a substitute.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the meats and add more chickpeas or use plant-based protein alternatives.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What can I serve with these koftas?
In addition to the salad and flatbreads, they can be served with rice, couscous, or in pita bread with extra sauces.
Conclusion
This dish beautifully combines the rich flavors of chickpeas and aromatic spices with the hearty textures of beef and pork mince. The grilling process creates a satisfying char, while the fresh salad adds a crunchy contrast, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. The chili-rippled yoghurt provides a creamy, spicy finish, enhancing the overall experience. Pair with homemade flatbreads for a complete and satisfying feast.
Vegetable Kofta with Couscous
Imagining a vegetarian twist? Substitute the meat with a mix of blended chickpeas and vegetables, shaped into kofta, and served over fluffy couscous with a tangy tahini sauce.
Stuffed Flatbreads
Incorporate leftover kofta into flatbreads by adding cheese and fresh herbs before grilling for a tasty stuffed version, perfect for a hearty snack or lunch.
Chickpea and Mint Salad
Create a refreshing chickpea and mint salad by combining drained chickpeas, chopped cucumber, baby gem lettuce, and a lemon-yogurt dressing, making it a great side dish.
Spiced Beef and Pork Burgers
Utilize the same beef and pork mince to create spiced burgers seasoned with garam masala, served on homemade flatbreads with mint-yoghurt sauce for a savory twist.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
For a quick meal, sauté the mixed crunchy vegetables with garlic and soy sauce, and serve alongside grilled kofta or incorporated into a wrap.
Fruit and Nut Energy Bites
Transform the luxury fruit and nut mix into energy bites by mixing it with oats and a touch of honey, shaping them into small balls for a nutritious snack.
