Kashmiri Shab Deg: Hearty Mutton Kofta & Turnip Curry Delight

Kashmiri Style Shab Deg Recipe – Mutton Kofta and Turnip Curry

Introduction

Dive into the rich, aromatic world of Kashmiri cuisine with this exquisite recipe for Shab Deg, a traditional dish featuring succulent mutton koftas and tender turnips. This hearty curry is a celebration of flavors, perfect for a special occasion or a comforting family meal. With a preparation time of just 40 minutes and a total cooking time of approximately 3 hours, this dish is designed to tantalize your taste buds while allowing you to savor the process of cooking.

Ingredients

For the Mutton Kofta

For the Curry

Nutritional Information

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough
   To kick off your Shab Deg journey, gradually add water to the whole wheat flour to form a firm, pliable dough. This dough is essential for sealing the pot later, so ensure it’s tightly made. Once it’s ready, set it aside and let it rest.

2. Prep the Ingredients
   Gather all your ingredients on the kitchen counter. Start by grinding the blanched almonds and poppy seeds into a fine paste, then set this aside. Peel and wash the turnips, cutting them into halves or quarters. For an added touch of color and flavor, soak the saffron strands in the milk and refrigerate them.

3. Make the Kofta
   In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients necessary for the kofta. Mix them well until they form a cohesive dough. From this mixture, take a lemon-sized portion, roll it into a ball, and shape it into a kofta. Place these aside for later use.

4. Cook the Turnips
   In a heavy-bottomed vessel known as a “deg,” heat ghee over medium flame. Add the prepared turnips and fry them until they turn a delightful golden brown. Once done, remove them from the pot and set aside.

5. Sauté the Aromatics
   In the remaining ghee, add the carom seeds, cardamom pods, and cloves. Allow them to crackle and release their aromatic oils. Then, introduce the minced mutton into the pot and sauté for at least 5 minutes until it begins to brown.

6. Incorporate the Spices
   Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for an additional 2 minutes. Season this mixture with Kashmiri red chilli powder, coriander powder, and salt, ensuring everything is well combined. Next, add the whisked yogurt and keep stirring until it blends seamlessly with the spices.

7. Slow Cooking
   Sprinkle in the garam masala and add a splash of water to help the ingredients meld together. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer gently for about 1 hour.

8. Final Touches
   After an hour, add warm water, the fried onions, turnips, and the koftas to the pot. Taste the mixture for salt and adjust as needed. Seal the deg with a well-fitting lid, using the reserved dough to create a tight seal around the edges. Keep the flame very low and let it cook undisturbed for another 2 hours.

9. Finishing the Curry
   Once the cooking time is up, carefully break the seal and remove the lid. Stir in the saffron-infused milk, which adds a beautiful color and a touch of luxury to the dish. For garnishing, sprinkle finely chopped coriander or kasuri methi over the top and drizzle some fresh cream or malai.

10. Serve and Enjoy
    Your Kashmiri Style Shab Deg is now ready to be served! This dish pairs wonderfully with Jeera Rice, Naan, Boondi Raita, and a refreshing onion salad for a complete meal experience. Relish the exquisite flavors and textures that this traditional dish brings to your dining table.

Conclusion

Kashmiri Style Shab Deg is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that encapsulates the warmth and richness of Kashmiri culture. With tender mutton koftas enveloped in a luscious curry, this dish is bound to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process of making it as much as savoring its delightful flavors. Happy cooking!