What Are Seekh Kebabs?
Seekh kebabs are skewered minced meat, traditionally made from lamb, beef, or chicken, and seasoned with a variety of spices. These kebabs are shaped around a skewer and grilled to perfection, often served with naan, salad, or chutney. The word “seekh” refers to the skewer, and the kebabs are known for their juicy and flavorful profile. They are popular in South Asian cuisine, especially in India and Pakistan.
Ingredients for the Perfect Seekh Kebab
To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 kg minced lamb (with some fat for moisture)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 large tomato, finely chopped
- 12 green chillies (adjust according to spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- A handful of fresh coriander, chopped
For the seasoning, gather:
- Salt to taste
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons chili flakes (optional)
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by finely chopping the onion, tomato, and green chillies. You want these ingredients to be as finely chopped as possible to ensure they blend well with the minced meat.
Next, mix the chopped ingredients in a bowl with the minced lamb. Add in the garlic and ginger paste, olive oil, lemon juice, and all the spices listed above. Make sure to mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
Marinating the Mixture
Cover the mixture and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour. For best results, marinate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful kebab.
Shaping the Kebabs
After marinating, it’s time to shape the kebabs. Take a handful of the meat mixture and mold it around a skewer, forming a cylindrical shape. Make sure the meat is tightly packed to prevent it from falling off during cooking.
Cooking Methods for Seekh Kebabs
There are several ways to cook seekh kebabs, each imparting a unique flavor. Here are the most popular methods:
1. Oven Cooking
Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the kebabs on a baking tray lined with foil and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes. After this, turn them over and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until they are browned and cooked through.
2. Pan Frying
Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the shaped kebabs and cook, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through. This method gives a nice crispy exterior.
3. Grilling
If you have access to a grill, this is the best method for cooking seekh kebabs. The open flame adds a smoky flavor that is hard to replicate in the oven or on the stovetop. Grill the kebabs for about 10 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
Once the kebabs are cooked, remove them from the skewers and serve hot. They pair wonderfully with:
- Garlic naan or pita bread
- Fresh salad
- Mint or yogurt chutney
- Sliced onions and lemon wedges
Conclusion
Making seekh kebabs at home is a rewarding experience. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create delicious, restaurant-style kebabs that will impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to suit your taste and enjoy these flavorful kebabs as a starter or main dish!
Try this seekh kebab recipe at your next gathering and savor the deliciousness of homemade kebabs!