Are you craving a delicious, hearty, and surprisingly easy Iranian meal? Look no further than Kotlet! This classic dish, a type of Iranian cutlet, is a staple in many Iranian homes, offering a fantastic blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Kotlet is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. This recipe offers a simple, step-by-step guide to achieving perfectly crispy, flavorful Kotlets, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to experience the warmth and deliciousness of homemade Iranian cooking!
Ingredients:
This Kotlet recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and lamb for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or enough for frying)
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated potato for extra moisture and binding
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Kotlet Mixture
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef (or beef and lamb mix), chopped onion, parsley, egg, bread crumbs, turmeric, pepper, and salt. If using, add the grated potato now. Mix everything thoroughly but avoid overmixing, as this can make the Kotlets tough.
Step 2: Shaping the Kotlets
Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a flat, oval-shaped patty, about ½ inch thick. This ensures even cooking and a nice, crispy exterior.
Step 3: Frying the Kotlets
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a drop of water should sizzle immediately), carefully place the Kotlet patties in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary for optimal browning.
Step 4: Achieving Golden Perfection
Fry the Kotlets for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a spatula to gently flip them halfway through. You should see a nice crust developing on each side.
Step 5: Serving Your Delicious Kotlets
Once cooked, remove the Kotlets from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Kotlets:
- Don't overmix the meat: Gentle mixing is key to tender Kotlets.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, or turmeric according to your preference.
- Use high-quality ground meat: This will significantly impact the flavor of your Kotlets.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: This will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy, not crispy, Kotlets.
- Let the Kotlets rest briefly: Allowing them to rest for a few minutes before serving helps them retain their juices.
Variations:
- Add other herbs and spices: Experiment with adding other herbs and spices like dill, mint, or cumin to customize the flavor.
- Use different types of meat: Ground chicken or turkey can be used as a healthier alternative to beef.
- Make them baked, not fried: For a healthier option, bake the Kotlets in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This delicious and easy Kotlet recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy this taste of Iranian home-style cooking!