Mutton Keema, a delightful minced meat dish, transcends mere sustenance; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that evokes warmth and nostalgia. This beloved Indian recipe, often served with naan or rice, strikes a harmonious balance between spices and succulent mutton. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the art of making Mutton Keema, including servings, time requirements, nutritional insights, extra notes for perfection, and a crucial disclaimer.
Number of Servings:
This recipe yields 4 servings, making it an ideal choice for a family dinner or an intimate gathering. Feel free to adjust the quantities to suit your needs.
Time Required:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Nutritional Values (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Iron: 3.5 mg
- Vitamin A: 1500 IU
- Vitamin C: 15 mg
Ingredients:
- 500g minced mutton
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (curd)
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
Extra Notes for Perfection:
Choosing Mutton: Go for lean minced mutton with a mix of meat and fat for a balanced flavor. You can also request your butcher to mince it to your preference.
Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger, garlic, green chilies, and spices play a vital role in enhancing the taste of your Keema. Avoid using pre-packaged or powdered spices if possible.
Marination (Optional): While not mandatory, marinating the mutton with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, and a pinch of salt for 30 minutes can tenderize the meat and intensify the flavors.
Mint-Coriander Magic: The combination of fresh mint and coriander leaves lends a refreshing aroma and taste to your Keema. Don’t skimp on these herbs.
Sautéing Technique: Slow-cooking the onions until they turn golden brown adds a sweet richness to the dish. Take your time here; it’s worth it.
The Art of Crafting Mutton Keema:
Preparation:
- Start by heating oil in a deep skillet or pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
- Toss in the chopped onions and sauté patiently until they develop a beautiful golden hue. This can take about 10-15 minutes.
- Add the minced ginger and garlic, and continue sautéing for a few more minutes until the raw aroma dissipates.
- Introduce the green chilies and chopped tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes become soft and mushy.
Cooking the Keema:
- If you marinate the mutton, add it now and cook until it turns brown and the moisture evaporates.
- Stir in the spices: coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes until the oil begins to separate.
- Reduce the heat and add the plain yogurt. Simmer and stir until the yogurt is fully incorporated, giving a creamy texture to the Keema.
- Sprinkle garam masala, fresh mint, and coriander leaves over the Keema. Stir and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to melt the flavors.
Serving Mutton Keema:
- Mutton Keema is best enjoyed hot, garnished with a handful of fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve it with naan, rice, or your favorite bread for a hearty meal.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or dietary advice. The nutritional values mentioned are approximate and can vary based on various factors, including the specific ingredients used and serving sizes. If you have specific dietary concerns or health issues, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.
In Conclusion:
Mutton Keema is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition, a connection to our roots, and a testament to the power of simple, honest ingredients. Crafting this dish is an act of love, and each bite carries the warmth of home-cooked comfort. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the aromas, and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the joy of savoring life’s simple pleasures.
