Sizzling Kabab Kubideh: Authentic Persian Grilled Meat Skewers
Indulge in the rich flavors of traditional Persian Kabab Kubideh, a tantalizing mixture of ground beef or lamb combined with grated onion, spices, and breadcrumbs, all perfectly grilled to succulent perfection. The skewers create a mouthwatering meat experience, making these kababs an ideal dish for gatherings or family meals. Served hot with fluffy rice and a side of fresh grilled vegetables or a vibrant salad, this recipe promises a delightful culinary journey for your taste buds. For the best results, use flat skewers to keep the meat in place while grilling and marinate overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness. Enjoy the aromatic spices and tender texture of these kababs, guaranteed to impress anyone who tastes them.
12
Servings
200
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground beef or lamb
1 lb (Choose lean meat for best results.)
Medium onion
1 (Grated and drained of juice.)
Breadcrumbs or white flour
1/4 cup (Use breadcrumbs for a more textured meat.)
Egg
1 (Slightly beaten (optional for binding).)
Turmeric
1 teaspoon (Ground.)
Salt
1 teaspoon (Adjust to taste.)
Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (Freshly ground for flavor.)
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon (Fresh is best for brightening flavors.)
Instructions
1
Start by grating the onion and then draining it thoroughly to remove excess moisture, which is key to achieving the desired consistency.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained grated onion, ground meat, breadcrumbs (or flour), beaten egg (if using), turmeric, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well until blended and smooth.
3
Cover the mixture tightly and refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to meld together and the meat to firm up.
4
When ready to cook, preheat your grill. If using a charcoal grill, prepare hot coals and place a spacer between the grates and the skewers to prevent sticking, or spray the grill grates liberally with cooking spray.
5
Divide the chilled meat mixture into 10-12 equal portions. With wet hands, mold each portion around long, flat metal skewers, shaping them into elongated sausages. Ensure that they are evenly compressed to hold their shape during cooking.
6
Position the skewers a few inches above the heat source. Grill the kababs, turning them frequently to ensure even browning and to avoid burning. Cook each side for about 3-5 minutes until they are browned and fully cooked.
7
Once cooked, remove the kababs from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Pair with hot rice and your choice of sides for a delicious meal.
Nutrition Information
15g
Fat
6g
Carbs
12g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sizzling Kabab Kubideh?
It is a traditional Persian dish consisting of grilled meat skewers made from a mixture of ground beef or lamb, grated onions, and aromatic spices.
What type of meat works best for this recipe?
You can use one pound of lean ground beef or ground lamb for the best results.
Why do I need to drain the grated onion?
Draining the onion juice is crucial for removing excess moisture, which ensures the meat mixture has the right consistency to stay on the skewers.
Can I use flour if I do not have breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can use 1/4 cup of white flour as an alternative to breadcrumbs to help bind the meat.
Is the egg necessary for the recipe?
The slightly beaten egg is optional; it is used as a binding agent to help the meat hold its shape.
What spices are included in the mixture?
The recipe calls for one teaspoon of turmeric, one teaspoon of salt, and a half teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
Why is lemon juice added to the meat?
One tablespoon of fresh lemon juice is used to brighten the flavors and enhance the overall taste of the kababs.
How long should the meat mixture be refrigerated?
It is recommended to cover the mixture tightly and refrigerate it overnight.
Why is overnight refrigeration important?
Refrigerating the mixture overnight allows the flavors to meld together and helps the meat firm up for easier skewering.
What kind of skewers are best for Kabab Kubideh?
Long, flat metal skewers are ideal because they prevent the meat from spinning or falling off during the grilling process.
How many portions should I divide the meat into?
The mixture should be divided into 10 to 12 equal portions before being molded onto the skewers.
How do I shape the kababs on the skewers?
Mold each portion around the skewer with wet hands, shaping them into elongated sausages and ensuring they are evenly compressed.
Why should I use wet hands when molding the meat?
Using wet hands prevents the meat mixture from sticking to your skin and helps create a smooth surface on the kababs.
How should I prepare the grill for cooking?
Preheat the grill and either use a spacer for charcoal or spray the grates liberally with cooking spray to prevent the meat from sticking.
How far above the heat source should the skewers be placed?
Position the skewers a few inches above the heat source to ensure even cooking without immediate burning.
How long do the kababs need to cook?
Grill each side for about 3 to 5 minutes until they are thoroughly browned and fully cooked.
Why do I need to turn the skewers frequently?
Turning the skewers often ensures even browning on all sides and prevents the meat from burning.
What should I do once the kababs are removed from the grill?
Remove them from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before serving.
What is the recommended way to serve Kabab Kubideh?
Serve them hot with fluffy rice and a side of fresh grilled vegetables or a vibrant salad.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe provides approximately 12 servings.
What are the calories per serving for these kababs?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 15 grams of fat.
How much protein is in one serving of Kabab Kubideh?
There are 12 grams of protein per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 6 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I use a charcoal grill for this recipe?
Yes, a charcoal grill works perfectly; just ensure you prepare hot coals and use a spacer to prevent the meat from sticking to the grates.
What is the purpose of turmeric in this dish?
Turmeric adds an earthy flavor and provides the signature golden color associated with authentic Persian kababs.
Should the onion be grated or chopped?
The onion should be grated to ensure it integrates well into the meat mixture without creating large chunks.
How many main ingredients are required?
The recipe uses 8 main ingredients, including meat, onion, binders, and spices.
Can I use fresh lemon juice?
Yes, fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor brightening effect.
Is this dish suitable for family gatherings?
Yes, the savory flavors and skewer format make it an ideal dish for family meals and social gatherings.