Savory Indian Spiced Koftas with Aromatic Sauce

1. Prepare Kofta Mixture

Combine the ground meat with salt, pepper, garam masala, ground coriander, and cumin in a large bowl. Cover and set aside.

2. Prepare Herb & Spice Filling

In a separate bowl, mix together the chilies, garlic, ginger, scallions or onion, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Form Koftas

Wet your hands with warm water and take a portion of the meat mixture to form a ball. Make a well in the center and add a small amount of the herb & spice filling. Seal the meat around the filling and shape into an oval kofta. Repeat until all the meat is used.

4. Brown Koftas

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cinnamon stick, dried red peppers, cardamom pods, black peppercorns, and cloves. Once fragrant, add the koftas and brown on all sides. Remove the koftas and set aside.

5. Prepare Aromatic Sauce

In the same skillet, add additional vegetable oil if needed. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden. Stir in ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, chopped tomatoes, paprika, garam masala, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens.

6. Finish Cooking Koftas

Return the koftas to the skillet with the sauce. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the koftas are cooked through.

7. Garnish and Serve

Serve the koftas hot, garnished with cilantro, fried onion rings, and a sprinkle of ground cardamom.