Spiced Chicken Balti Kofta
Indulge in the unique flavors of Spiced Chicken Balti Kofta, a delightful twist on traditional kofta that substitutes tender chicken for a lighter yet equally flavorful experience. This dish is perfect for gatherings, serving as a delectable appetizer that pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of lager. For an authentic touch, consider serving it with paneer, an Indian cheese, which, if unavailable, can be substituted with a similar soft cheese. The vibrant spices create a mouthwatering aroma that will leave your guests eager for more!
4
Servings
225
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
skinless chicken breast
1 lb (cubed)
garlic
1 clove (crushed)
fresh ginger
1 teaspoon (grated)
ground coriander
1 teaspoon
chili powder
1 teaspoon
ground fenugreek
1/2 teaspoon
turmeric
1/2 teaspoon
salt
1 teaspoon
fresh coriander leaves
2 tablespoons (chopped)
fresh green chilies
2 (chopped)
water
1 pint
oil
as needed (for deep frying)
Instructions
1
In a large pan, combine the cubed chicken, crushed garlic, grated ginger, ground coriander, chili powder, ground fenugreek, turmeric, salt, chopped coriander leaves, and chopped green chilies.
2
Add the pint of water and cook over medium heat. Stir occasionally and continue cooking until the water has fully evaporated and the mixture is well combined, approximately 15-20 minutes.
3
Remove the pan from heat and allow the mixture to cool for 30 minutes, which will make handling easier.
4
Transfer the cooled mixture to a blender or food processor and blend for about 2 minutes until a smooth, pasty consistency is achieved.
5
With your hands, form the mixture into approximately 12 equal-sized balls, ensuring they are compact.
6
In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C).
7
Carefully add the kofta balls to the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary, and cook until they are golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.
8
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the kofta balls from the oil and drain on kitchen paper to remove excess oil.
9
Serve the spiced chicken balti kofta hot, garnished with additional coriander leaves if desired.
Nutrition Information
5g
Carbs
22.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Chicken Balti Kofta?
It is a unique twist on traditional kofta that uses tender chicken instead of other meats, creating a lighter but flavorful appetizer with vibrant Indian spices.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What are the nutritional values per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 225 calories, 22.5g of protein, and 5g of carbohydrates.
What type of chicken should I use?
You should use 1 lb of skinless chicken breast, cubed for initial cooking.
How do I prepare the garlic and ginger?
The garlic should be crushed (1 clove) and the ginger should be grated (1 teaspoon).
What spices are included in the Balti Kofta?
The spice blend includes ground coriander, chili powder, ground fenugreek, turmeric, and salt.
Are there fresh herbs in this recipe?
Yes, it uses 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh coriander leaves.
How much water is needed for cooking the chicken?
You will need 1 pint of water to cook the chicken and spice mixture.
How long should I cook the chicken mixture initially?
Cook the mixture over medium heat for approximately 15-20 minutes until the water has fully evaporated.
Does the mixture need to cool before blending?
Yes, allow the mixture to cool for 30 minutes to make handling and blending easier.
What is the desired consistency after blending?
You should blend the mixture for about 2 minutes until it reaches a smooth, pasty consistency.
How many koftas does this recipe make?
The recipe yields approximately 12 equal-sized balls.
What temperature should the frying oil be?
The oil should be heated to 350°F (180°C) for deep frying.
How long do the koftas take to fry?
They take about 4-5 minutes until they are golden brown on all sides.
How should I drain the excess oil?
Use a slotted spoon to remove the koftas and place them on kitchen paper to drain.
What beverage pairs well with this dish?
A chilled glass of lager is a wonderful pairing for these spiced chicken koftas.
Is there a specific cheese recommended for serving?
Serving it with paneer (an Indian cheese) is recommended for an authentic touch.
What can I use if paneer is unavailable?
You can substitute paneer with any similar soft cheese.
How spicy is this dish?
The dish contains 1 teaspoon of chili powder and 2 chopped green chilies, giving it a vibrant, spicy kick.
Can I serve this as a main course?
While it is described as a delectable appetizer or finger food, it can be served as a light meal for four.
What is the preparation for the green chilies?
The 2 fresh green chilies should be chopped before being added to the pan.
Should I fry all the koftas at once?
It is recommended to fry them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 12 ingredients in total for this recipe.
What color should the koftas be when finished?
The koftas should be fried until they are golden brown.
Is there a garnish suggestion?
Yes, you can garnish the hot koftas with additional fresh coriander leaves.
Can I use chicken thighs?
The recipe specifies skinless chicken breast, but you could substitute thighs if preferred, though the fat content may vary.
What category of cuisine does this fall into?
This dish is part of Indian cuisine, specifically categorized as a Balti-style dish.
How much ground fenugreek is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of ground fenugreek.
Is this dish suitable for party gatherings?
Yes, it is tagged as a 'party dish' and 'finger food,' making it perfect for gatherings.
What equipment is needed to shape the koftas?
Once the mixture is blended into a paste, you simply use your hands to form them into compact balls.