Crispy Vegetarian Shami Kabab (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For Cooking Chickpeas

01 - 1 cup dried black chickpeas
02 - 2 cups water for cooking
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Main Ingredients

04 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
05 - 1 green chili, finely chopped
06 - 3-4 tablespoons gram flour (besan)
07 - 1/2 tablespoon ginger paste
08 - 1 tablespoon fresh coriander leaves, chopped

→ Spices

09 - 1 teaspoon coriander powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
12 - Salt to taste

→ For Frying & Garnish

13 - Oil for shallow frying
14 - 1 tablespoon mint or coriander leaves, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - Rinse and soak black chickpeas overnight or for 8-9 hours. Drain soaking water and pressure cook with fresh water and salt for 10-15 minutes until thoroughly cooked. Drain well and ensure chickpeas are completely dry.
02 - Mash the cooked chickpeas into a semi-coarse mixture. Add chopped onions, green chili, spices, gram flour, ginger paste, and coriander leaves. Mix everything well together.
03 - Form mixture into small round patties. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and shallow fry the kababs until crispy and golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
04 - Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot with mint chutney, lemon wedges, and onion slices.

# Notes:

01 - Can be made with chana dal or a mix of chana dal and black chickpeas
02 - Test one kabab first to ensure mixture holds together while frying
03 - Can be baked or air-fried for a healthier version
04 - Ensure chickpeas are completely drained to prevent mixture from becoming too wet