SAEDNEWS: Shami Pok is one of Gilan’s traditional and flavorful dishes, especially prepared during Ramadan for the Iftar table. This dish is made from a combination of minced meat, rice, eggs, and aromatic spices, resulting in a delicate and delightful taste. Shami Pok is usually served with yogurt, pickles, or fresh herbs.
Fluffy Potato Koofteh, or Shami Pok, is a traditional Persian dish that combines tender meat, lentils, and potatoes into a soft, flavorful patty. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s lightly spiced and fried to golden perfection.
Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
Potatoes | 2 medium |
Onion | 1 medium |
Beef | 400 g |
Lentils | 200 g |
Eggs | 2 |
Salt & Black Pepper | To taste |
Turmeric & Oil | As needed |
Step 1: Soak the Lentils
Place lentils in a bowl of water the night before cooking to reduce their natural gas. If possible, change the water a few times for best results.
Step 2: Prepare Meat and Seasonings
Cut the onion into quarters or thick slices. Add it to a suitable pot along with the beef. Season with black pepper and turmeric, then pour in two cups of boiling water.
Step 3: Initial Meat Cooking and Adding Lentils
Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer the meat for 45 minutes. Drain the lentils and add them to the pot.
Step 4: Add Potatoes and Continue Cooking
Peel and wash the potatoes, then add them to the pot. Let the meat, lentils, and potatoes cook for another 45 minutes. Add salt during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 5: Mash the Meat
Once fully cooked, drain the mixture through a colander. Separate the meat and mash it in a bowl until it becomes tender and shredded.
Step 6: Combine Lentils, Potatoes, and Eggs
Process the lentils and potatoes in a blender or meat grinder. Combine them with the shredded meat in a large bowl. Add the eggs and mix thoroughly.
Step 7: Rest the Mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the mixture to rest. Heat a pan with a little oil in preparation for frying.
Step 8: Shape and Fry
Take a portion roughly the size of a tangerine, shape it into a round patty, and press a small hole in the center with your finger. Fry until golden. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
Step 9: Prevent Patties from Falling Apart
If the patties break during frying, whisk an egg white in a small bowl and brush both sides of each patty with it before frying. This helps them hold together.
Step 10: Drain and Serve
Place the fried patties on a paper towel to remove excess oil and keep them crispy. Serve Shami Pok with bread or rice as desired.
Add Fresh Herbs
Chopped parsley or cilantro enhances aroma and adds a refreshing flavor. Fresh herbs also provide vitamins and nutrients, boosting the dish’s nutritional value. Finely chop them so they blend seamlessly into the mixture.
Use Spices Wisely
Turmeric gives Shami Pok a warm yellow hue, while black and red pepper add heat and depth. Garlic powder can also enhance the flavor, making the dish more aromatic and appetizing.
