Go Back

Katlesi / Chops

This delightful snack has different names all across the globe. In East Africa, its called Katlesi or chops and so that's what we shall call it around here.

Ingredients

  • 8 potatoes; boil until soft
  • 250 gms minced beef; you can use mutton or chicken
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 heaped tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 onion; diced
  • 2 cloves garlic; minced
  • 1/2 tsp green chilli; optional
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp coriander; roughly chopped
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cups of Vegetable oil

Instructions

  • Add the potatoes to a thick bottomed pot. Pour in enough water to cover the potatoes and add in 2 tbsp salt. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are soft.
  • Mash the potatoes using a ricer or the back of a bottle.
  • In a pan, add the minced meat followed by all the spices and cook until the meat browns.
  • Add in the diced onion, garlic and chilli. Cook on medium heat until the onions are translucent.
  • Squeeze in the juice of one lemon and turn the heat off. Set aside until the meat mixture is cool enough to handle.

Assemble:

  • Take 1 1/2 tablespoons of the mashed potato and form a disk shape. Cup your hand slightly and shape the potato mix by gently pressing it into your cupped hand.
  • Grab a tablespoon of the meat mixture (or filling of your choice) and add it to the mashed potato.
  • Bring the sides of the potato together and form a ball. Press gently to flatten it ever so slightly.
  • In a bowl add two eggs and 1 tsp salt, whisk well.
  • Dip the shaped potato patties into the egg then shallow fry for 2 min each side.

Notes

  • Flavour your mashed potatoes. Even if it's just with salt.
  • If you're not into meat, you can use mushrooms, paneer, tofu or even chickpeas.
  • The mashed potato shouldn't be too soft. This means, don't add liquid while mashing them up. Yes, butter and cream are out. But don't worry, those are two friends you won't miss today.