Grilled Tandoori Lamb
Grilled Tandoori Lamb Recipe from Kuwait with Cumin, Fennel Seeds, and Cardamom
Introduction
Grilled Tandoori Lamb is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The combination of spices and herbs used in this recipe creates a delicious marinade that infuses the lamb with bold flavors.
History
Tandoori cooking originated in the Indian subcontinent, where meats and vegetables are marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices before being cooked in a tandoor, a cylindrical clay oven. This method of cooking imparts a smoky flavor to the food and results in tender and juicy meat.
Ingredients
In a dry skillet, toast until aromatic
- 2 tbsp cumin seeds
- 2 tsp fennel seeds
- 2 tsp cardamom seeds
- 0.5 tsp whole black peppercorns
Grind the cooled spices in a spice mill with
- 1.5 tsp dried crushed red pepper
How to prepare
- Spray the grill rack with nonstick spray. Prepare the barbecue at medium-high heat. Grill the lamb for 25 minutes for medium-rare. The internal temperature at the thickest part of the meat should be 125°F (52°C). Let the lamb rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- This recipe makes 6 servings. You can also use the spice mixture on salmon, chicken pieces, or shrimp.
Variations
- You can use chicken, shrimp, or salmon instead of lamb in this recipe for a different flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to toast the whole spices before grinding them to release their essential oils and enhance their flavors.
- Marinate the lamb for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Let the lamb rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Grilled Tandoori Lamb with a side of basmati rice, naan bread, and a cucumber raita for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Grilling
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute ground spices for whole spices if needed.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the lamb in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until ready to grill.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the Grilled Tandoori Lamb with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice for a pop of color and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this dish with a light and refreshing cucumber salad or a tangy mango chutney.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
280 per serving
Carbohydrates
2g per serving
Fats
18g per serving
Proteins
24g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (yogurt) and nuts (fennel seeds).
Summary
Grilled Tandoori Lamb is a high-protein dish that is rich in flavor and nutrients. It is a great option for those looking to add more variety to their barbecue menu.
Summary
Grilled Tandoori Lamb is a delicious and aromatic dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The combination of spices and herbs used in this recipe creates a flavorful marinade that infuses the lamb with bold flavors. Serve with rice, naan bread, and a cucumber raita for a complete meal.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer evening and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Patel, who had invited me over for dinner. As soon as I walked into her house, I was hit by the most tantalizing aroma of spices and grilled meat.
I followed the scent to the backyard where Mrs. Patel was busy tending to a sizzling hot grill. She smiled warmly at me and handed me a plate of beautifully charred pieces of marinated lamb. As soon as I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavors and spices that I had never experienced before.
I begged Mrs. Patel to share her recipe with me, and she graciously agreed. She explained that the key to making the perfect Grilled Tandoori Lamb was in the marinade – a mixture of yogurt, ginger, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. She also revealed that the secret ingredient that gave the dish its signature red hue was a touch of vibrant red Kashmiri chili powder.
Over the years, I perfected the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my own taste. I experimented with different cuts of lamb – from chops to racks to leg of lamb – and found that each cut brought its own unique flavor and texture to the dish. I also discovered that the longer you marinated the lamb, the more tender and flavorful it became.
As I continued to make the Grilled Tandoori Lamb for family gatherings and dinner parties, it became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. My grandchildren would often request it for their birthdays, and friends would always ask for the recipe after tasting it at my house.
One day, while shopping at the local market, I ran into an old friend who had just returned from a trip to India. She raved about the tandoori dishes she had tried there and mentioned that she had brought back a special blend of tandoori masala for me to try. I was thrilled at the thought of incorporating a new ingredient into my beloved recipe and couldn't wait to experiment with it.
I wasted no time in marinating a fresh batch of lamb with the new tandoori masala. As soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly magical. The blend of spices in the masala added a depth and complexity to the dish that I had never experienced before.
I immediately called Mrs. Patel to share my discovery with her. She was delighted to hear that I had found a new twist to the recipe and encouraged me to continue experimenting with different spices and ingredients. Together, we exchanged ideas and tips on how to elevate the dish to new heights.
As I continued to hone my skills in making Grilled Tandoori Lamb, I also started to pass on the recipe to the younger generations in my family. My granddaughters would often come over to my house to learn the art of marinating and grilling the perfect lamb. I would patiently guide them through each step, sharing the stories and memories that were attached to the recipe.
Through the years, the recipe for Grilled Tandoori Lamb has become more than just a dish – it has become a symbol of the love and friendship that I have shared with the people in my life. It represents the journey of discovery and experimentation that has shaped me into the cook that I am today.
And as I sit here, surrounded by the laughter and chatter of my loved ones, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipe that has brought us all together. The Grilled Tandoori Lamb will always hold a special place in my heart, as a reminder of the joy and connection that can be found in a simple meal shared with those we hold dear.
Categories
| Cardamom Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Fennel Seed Recipes | Kuwaiti Appetizers | Kuwaiti Recipes | Lamb Recipes | Shrimp Recipes |