Authentic Persian Kababi: A Step-By-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of minced mutton
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 green chillies, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the minced mutton, finely chopped onion, green chillies, and ginger-garlic paste.
  2. Add the turmeric powder, red chilli powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt to the meat mixture. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.
  3. Add the chopped fresh coriander, mint, and lemon juice to the meat mixture and mix well. The mixture should be well combined and hold together well.
  4. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each portion into a long, thin shape around skewers.
  5. Preheat a grill or barbecue. Brush the kababs with vegetable oil and place them on the grill.
  6. Cook the kababs for 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through.
  7. Once the kababs are cooked, remove them from the grill and serve hot with a side of mint chutney or yogurt dip.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Substitute minced mutton with minced chicken or beef
  • Add finely grated cheese to the meat mixture for a cheesy variation
  • Replace the vegetable oil with ghee for a richer flavor
  • Add a teaspoon of roasted gram flour (besan) to the meat mixture for added texture
  • Marinate the meat in yogurt and spices for a few hours before shaping and grilling
  • Add a pinch of saffron strands soaked in milk to the meat mixture for a fragrant twist
  • Include finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots for added crunch and flavor
  • Create a vegetarian version using mashed potatoes or paneer (Indian cottage cheese) as a base instead of meat
  • Experiment with different spice blends such as tikka masala or tandoori masala for unique flavors

Recipe overview

Enjoy a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine with this delicious and authentic Kababi recipe. These flavorful skewers of minced mutton are mixed with a variety of spices and herbs, giving them a unique and mouth-watering taste that's sure to impress. The Kababi are then grilled to perfection, resulting in a dish that's succulent on the inside and crispy on the outside. This recipe is easy to follow and can be enjoyed as a main course or as an appetizer. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply want to spice up your weekday meal, these Kababi are a delightful choice. Pair them with a side of mint chutney or a refreshing yogurt dip for an unforgettable dining experience.

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to cook the kababs?
    The kababs usually take around 10-15 minutes to cook on a grill or barbecue.
  2. Can I use beef instead of mutton?
    Yes, you can substitute minced beef for minced mutton in this recipe.
  3. Can I bake the kababs instead of grilling them?
    Yes, you can bake the kababs in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through.
  4. Can I use ground chicken instead of mutton?
    Yes, you can use ground chicken as a substitute for the minced mutton in this recipe.
  5. What can I serve with these kababs?
    These kababs are delicious when served with mint chutney or a yogurt dip. They can also be enjoyed with naan bread or rice.
  6. Can I prepare the kabab mixture in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the kabab mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and grilling the kababs.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Grill or barbecue - A grill or barbecue is needed to cook the kababs.
  • Skewers - Skewers are necessary for shaping the kababs and grilling them.
  • Bowl - A large bowl is required for mixing the meat and spices.
  • Brush - A brush is needed to brush the kababs with oil before grilling.
  • Plate - Plates are essential for serving the cooked kababs.

Origin stories

Kababs, particularly the minced meat kababs known as Kababi, are popular in many South Asian cuisines, especially in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The origins of kababs can be traced back to the Medieval Middle Eastern tradition of cooking meat on skewers, which was likely introduced to the Indian subcontinent by the Mughal Empire. The Mughals, known for their lavish feasts, loved their meat dishes and Kababi was one such dish that found a special place in their royal kitchens. The use of spices and herbs in the recipe is distinctive of the region's culinary style, where food is an art form and where every bite is meant to be a celebration of taste and tradition. So, the next time you savor that delicious, spicy, and succulent Kababi, remember you're not just enjoying a meal, you're partaking in a historical culinary journey that dates back to royal feasts of the past.

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.