Shami Kebab

1 pound ground lamb or lean beef
1/4 cup dried split peas
1/2 medium onion, minced
4 cloves garlic, crushed
3 whole cardamom pods
1 cinnamon stick
2 whole cloves
3 dried red chilies
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup water
1 egg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
deep fryer

1. Combine meat, split peas, onion, garlic, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, chilies, salt and water in a large pot over medium-high heat. Bring water to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered until all of the water has evaporated and split peas are cooked.
2. Remove meat mixture from the heat and allow to cool enough to handle. Transfer to a food processor and process until smooth and soft.
3. Transfer mixture to a bowl and combine with egg, lemon juice and cilantro. Form meat into patties about 2" wide.
4. Heat deep fryer to 350 degrees. Fry patties in small batches, flipping once, until the outside is crisp and brown.
5. Serve with pita bread, Raita, tomatoes and onions.

Makes 4 servings