(achaari boti kabab)

In Indian cuisine, almost everything is pickled; mangoes, fruits, vegetables and meats. The spices which are used to add to the flavors of pickles have been used in this recipe to marinate lamb cubes.

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon nigella seeds
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon black mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
2 medium onion, coarsely chopped
salt to taste
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon garam masala
1/3 cup white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 pound fresh boneless lamb, cut into 1-inch cubes
olive oil for basting
lemon wedges

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add nigella, fennel, cumin, mustard, and fenugreek seeds. Saute until very fragrant and start to sizzle, about 2 minutes. Add garlic, ginger and onions and saute until the onions become golden brown, about 8 minutes.

2. Add salt, cayenne pepper, garam masala and cook until the flavors are well mixed. Transfer the mixture to a food processor or blender and blend into a smooth paste by adding vinegar.

3. Transfer the mixture in a large bowl and add the lamb cubes. Gently rub the meat with the marinate and cover and refrigerate for atleast 3 hours.

4. Thread the seasoned lamb cubes onto skewers, coating with all the marinade.

5. Grill, covered, on medium-low heat, basting with oil until lamb is fully cooked and tender, about 12 to 15 minutes.

6. Slide the cubes off the skewers onto a serving dish and serve hot with lemon wedges.

Serves 6.

Submitted by: Vikas Khanna