Vegetarian Kofta Recipe

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for vegetarian kofta, perfect for serving with various sides or in a curry.

Ingredients

For the Kofta:

• 1 cup chickpea flour (or besan)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup mixed grated vegetables (like carrots, zucchini, and potatoes)
• 1/2 cup fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro), chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying

For the Curry (optional):

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

Instructions

Prepare the Kofta Mixture:

• In a large bowl, combine the chickpea flour, chopped onion, grated vegetables, fresh herbs, cumin powder, garam masala, salt, and black pepper.
• Mix well until all ingredients are combined. If the mixture is too dry, add a little water until it holds together but is not too sticky.

Shape the Kofta:

• Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into balls or patties (about 1.5 inches in diameter).
• Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the kofta balls in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Fry the Kofta:

• Fry the kofta until golden brown on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Make the Curry (optional):

• In a separate pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
• Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute.
• Add pureed tomatoes, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
• Add water to achieve desired consistency and bring to a simmer.
• Gently add the fried kofta to the curry sauce and simmer for about 5 minutes.

Serve:

• Serve the kofta hot with rice, naan, or as part of a larger meal with side dishes like salad or pickles.

Tips for Success

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use any combination of vegetables you have on hand.
• Baking Option: For a healthier version, you can bake the kofta at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with yogurt sauce or chutney for added flavor.

Variations of Vegetarian Kofta Recipes

1. Paneer Kofta: Use grated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) mixed with spices and herbs to create a rich and creamy kofta. This variation is often served in a tomato-based curry.
2. Lentil Kofta: Substitute chickpea flour with cooked lentils (red or green) blended with spices, onions, and herbs for a protein-packed option.
3. Vegetable Kofta: Incorporate a variety of grated vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and potatoes into the kofta mixture for added texture and flavor.
4. Sweet Potato Kofta: Use mashed sweet potatoes as a base, combined with spices and chickpea flour for binding, resulting in a slightly sweet and flavorful kofta.
5. Quinoa Kofta: Mix cooked quinoa with grated vegetables, spices, and herbs for a nutritious twist on traditional kofta.

Making Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Without Beyond Meat

To make vegetarian kofta kebabs without using Beyond Meat:

1. Base Ingredients: Use a combination of chickpea flour or lentils as the base.
2. Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped onions, garlic, and grated vegetables (like zucchini or carrots) to add moisture and flavor.
3. Seasoning: Mix in spices such as cumin, coriander, garam masala, salt, and pepper.
4. Form Kebabs: Shape the mixture onto skewers or into patties.
5. Cooking Method: Grill or bake the kebabs until golden brown, ensuring they are cooked through.

Traditional Middle Eastern Dishes That Include Kofta

1. Kofta Kebabs: Grilled skewers of spiced ground meat or vegetarian mixtures served with pita bread and salads.
2. Kofta Curry: Koftas simmered in a rich tomato or yogurt-based sauce.
3. Kofta Meatballs: Baked or fried meatballs made with ground meat or vegetarian ingredients, often served over hummus or rice.
4. Kofta Sandwiches: Koftas stuffed in pita bread with fresh vegetables and sauces.

Using Different Types of Grain in Vegetarian Kofta

Yes, you can use various grains in vegetarian kofta:

• Quinoa: Adds protein and a nutty flavor.
• Bulgur Wheat: Provides texture and absorbs flavors well.
• Rice: Cooked rice can be used for binding; just ensure it’s not too sticky.
• Millet or Barley: These grains can also be incorporated for unique flavors and textures.

Making Vegetarian Kofta Burgers

To make vegetarian kofta burgers:

1. Base Mixture: Combine chickpea flour or lentils with grated vegetables (like zucchini or carrots), chopped onions, and spices (cumin, coriander).
2. Binding Agent: Use breadcrumbs or oats to help bind the mixture together.
3. Form Patties: Shape the mixture into burger-sized patties.
4. Cooking Method: Grill or pan-fry the patties until golden brown on both sides.
5. Serving Suggestions: Serve on buns with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your favorite sauces like tahini or vegan mayo.

This vegetarian kofta recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences!