Afghanistan Kofta Challow Recipes

KOFTA CHALAO

Steps:

• For the kofta: Mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, coriander, cumin, garlic, onions, cilantro and 1 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Form the mixture into 1-ounce balls.
• For the sauce: Heat the oil in a pot. Fry the onions until translucent. Add the garlic and 2 1/2 cups water; bring to a boil. Stir in the tomato paste, split peas, coriander, paprika, turmeric, dried plums, sweet peppers, tomatoes, cilantro and some salt and black pepper. Add the kofta, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Serve with the basmati rice.

AFGHANISTAN: KOFTA CHALLOW

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.