Authentic Middle Eastern Kabab Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of lean minced meat (preferably lamb or beef)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley
  • 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped coriander
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes before use

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ground coriander, ground cumin, ground turmeric, chili powder, black pepper, chopped parsley, chopped coriander, and salt.
  2. Use your hands to mix the ingredients together until they are well combined. The mixture should be sticky and hold together well.
  3. Shape the meat mixture into long, thin sausage shapes around the soaked wooden skewers. Ensure the meat is packed tightly around the skewer.
  4. Place the skewered kababs on a plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This will help the kababs hold their shape during cooking.
  5. Preheat your grill or barbecue to medium heat. Brush the grill with the vegetable oil to prevent the kababs from sticking.
  6. Place the kababs on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through.
  7. Serve the kababs hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy with flatbread and your choice of sauces or sides.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Substitute the minced meat with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
  • Add finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the meat mixture for added texture and flavor.
  • Experiment with different spice blends such as garam masala, paprika, or curry powder to customize the flavor profile.
  • For a vegetarian/vegan version, replace the minced meat with a mixture of cooked and mashed chickpeas, bread crumbs, and spices.
  • Try grilling the kababs on skewered vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes for a colorful and nutritious twist.
  • Marinate the meat or vegetable mixture in yogurt or lemon juice before shaping and grilling to add extra tenderness and tanginess.
  • Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or crushed nuts to the meat mixture for added crunch and nuttiness.
  • Serve the kababs with a side of mint chutney, tzatziki sauce, or a yogurt-based dip for a refreshing and creamy accompaniment.

Recipe overview

Delight your taste buds with this authentic and savory Kabab recipe. Originating from the Middle East, these grilled meat skewers are a staple in many cultures around the world. Made with a blend of minced meat, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, these Kababs are grilled to perfection for a crispy exterior and juicy interior. The recipe is straightforward and requires simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Prepare to immerse yourself in a culinary journey as you create these delicious kababs. Whether you serve them as a main course or a party appetizer, they are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process and most importantly, the result!

Common questions

  1. Can I use chicken instead of lamb or beef?
    Yes, you can substitute the lean minced meat with chicken if you prefer. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly.
  2. What can I serve with these kababs?
    These kababs go well with flatbread, such as naan or pita, along with a side of yogurt sauce, mint chutney, or a fresh salad.
  3. Can I cook these kababs in the oven?
    Yes, you can cook the kababs in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewered kababs on a baking sheet. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are cooked through and nicely browned.
  4. Can I freeze the kababs?
    Yes, you can freeze the uncooked kababs. After shaping the meat mixture around the skewers, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before grilling or cooking.
  5. Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?
    Yes, you can use metal skewers if you prefer. Just keep in mind that metal conducts heat more efficiently, so the cooking time may be slightly shorter.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Grill or Barbecue - A grill or barbecue is essential for cooking the kababs to perfection, giving them a smoky and charred flavor.
  • Wooden Skewers - Wooden skewers are used to shape and hold the kababs while grilling. Soaking them in water prevents them from burning during cooking.
  • Large Bowl - A large bowl is needed for mixing the ingredients together to make the kabab mixture.
  • Plastic Wrap - Plastic wrap is used to cover the plate of skewered kababs before refrigerating, helping them retain their shape.
  • Brush - A brush is used to lightly coat the grill or barbecue with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
  • Plate - A plate is needed to hold the skewered kababs before and after grilling.

Origin stories

Kabab, a word derived from Arabic, refers to a variety of meat dishes across the Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia. The common theme among these delicacies is the grilling or roasting of meat. However, it is historically believed that the concept of the kabab was born in the Middle East during medieval times, when soldiers used their swords to grill meat over open-field fires. The versatility and convenience of this cooking method soon spread across various regions, and each began to incorporate their local flavors and spices, resulting in a wide array of kababs we see today. From the Iranian Shish Kabab to the Indian Seekh Kabab, this gastronomic legacy continues to be an integral part of many cultures. Enjoying kababs is not just about savoring a dish; it's about partaking in a legendary culinary tradition that spans centuries and continents.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.