Middle Eastern > Iranian

Nargesi Kebab with Yogurt and Mint Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint

Special equipment needed:
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef or lamb, onion, garlic, turmeric, cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a long, thin sausage shape.
3. Thread each sausage shape onto a skewer, pressing the meat firmly onto the skewer.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the skewers to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and chopped mint.
7. Serve the kebabs with the yogurt and mint sauce on the side.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
5. Temperature:
Medium-high heat
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 350
Total fat: 25g
Saturated fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 400mg
Total carbohydrates: 5g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 27g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground chicken or turkey can be used instead of beef or lamb.
- Dried mint can be used instead of fresh mint.

Variations:
- Add chopped fresh parsley or cilantro to the yogurt sauce.
- Serve the kebabs with a side of rice or pita bread.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to press the meat firmly onto the skewers to prevent it from falling off during cooking.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning.

Storage instructions:
Leftover kebabs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the kebabs in a skillet over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the kebabs on a platter and drizzle the yogurt sauce over the top. Garnish with additional chopped mint or parsley.

Garnishes:
Chopped fresh mint or parsley

Pairings:
- Rice
- Pita bread
- Grilled vegetables

Suggested side dishes:
- Greek salad
- Hummus and pita chips
- Roasted potatoes

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the meat is sticking to the skillet, add a little more oil to the pan.
- If the meat is not cooking through, lower the heat and cook for a few more minutes.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the kebabs to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces that come into contact with raw meat to prevent cross-contamination.

Food history:
Nargesi Kebab is a traditional Persian dish that is typically made with ground lamb or beef and flavored with turmeric and cumin.

Flavor profiles:
The kebabs are savory and slightly spicy, with a hint of sweetness from the caramelized onions. The yogurt and mint sauce adds a cool, refreshing contrast.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the kebabs with a side of rice or pita bread, and a salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

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Region: Iranian

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Herbal, Spicy, Creamy