Persian Kebab Koobideh – Grilled minced lamb skewers

Persian Kebab Koobideh – Grilled Minced Lamb Skewers

Experience the rich and smoky flavors of Kebab Koobideh, a Persian classic made with seasoned minced lamb, grilled to perfection on skewers. This dish is a staple in Iranian cuisine and is commonly served with chelow (Persian saffron rice), grilled tomatoes, sumac, and flatbread.

A Staple in Persian Cuisine: The Many Names of Kebab Koobideh

Kebab Koobideh is one of Iran’s most beloved dishes and has variations across different regions and cultures. It is traditionally made with ground lamb or beef, flavored with onions, saffron, and Persian spices, then shaped onto skewers and grilled over an open flame.

• Iran: Kebab Koobideh (کباب کوبیده)
• Afghanistan: Chapli Kebab (closely related but spiced differently)
• Turkey: Adana Kebab (similar in preparation but spicier)
• Lebanon & Middle East: Kafta Kebab (uses additional herbs like parsley)
• India & Pakistan: Seekh Kebab (includes garam masala and coriander)
• Armenia & Caucasus: Lula Kebab (seasoned with garlic and black pepper)

This dish is commonly enjoyed during family gatherings, festivals, and Persian Nowruz (New Year celebrations). It is also a staple in Middle Eastern and Central Asian restaurants worldwide.

Recipe Overview (Quick Facts Section)

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Calories per Serving: 620 kcal
• Cooking Difficulty: Moderate
• Lifestyle Suitability & Specialty: High-Protein, Low-Carb, Traditional Persian Cuisine
• Countries Where the Meal is Popular: Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey, Lebanon, Armenia, Pakistan, India, Middle East

Detailed Description

Kebab Koobideh is a Persian grilled kebab dish made from minced lamb or beef, traditionally cooked on flat metal skewers (Seekh) over hot charcoal. The key to a juicy kebab lies in finely ground meat, well-seasoned with grated onions, sumac, and saffron, which gives it a rich aroma and flavor.

This authentic Iranian dish is best served with chelow (buttered saffron rice), grilled tomatoes, fresh herbs, sumac, and lavash bread. The balance of smoky, juicy meat with aromatic Persian spices makes it one of the most cherished kebab recipes in the world.

Ingredients (Serving for 2 People)

For the Kebab Koobideh:

✔ 300g minced lamb or beef (with at least 20% fat for tenderness)
✔ 1 small onion, grated
✔ 1 tsp salt
✔ ½ tsp black pepper
✔ ½ tsp turmeric powder
✔ 1 tsp sumac powder (for smoky tang)
✔ ½ tsp saffron threads (dissolved in warm water)
✔ ½ tsp paprika
✔ 1 tbsp butter, melted (for basting)

For Serving:

✔ 2 grilled tomatoes
✔ 1 cup Persian saffron rice (Chelow)
✔ Lavash or pita bread
✔ Fresh herbs (parsley, mint, basil)

Items NOT Included in Delivery:

• You will need skewers, saffron, sumac, and fresh herbs, which are not included in the recipe kit.

List of Utensils Required:

• Flat metal skewers (Seekh skewers)
• Grill or charcoal BBQ
• Mixing bowl
• Grater (for onions)
• Basting brush
• Cutting board
• Knife

Nutritional Information (Per Serving & Per 100g)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, grate the onion and squeeze out excess water. Add minced lamb or beef, salt, black pepper, turmeric, sumac, paprika, and saffron water. Mix well and knead for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes sticky and binds together.

Step 2: Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them onto flat metal skewers (about 1-inch thick). Press the meat gently to evenly distribute the mixture along the skewer.

Step 3: Preheat a charcoal grill or gas grill to medium-high heat. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, turning occasionally. Baste with melted butter during the last 2 minutes of grilling for extra flavor.

Step 4: Place whole tomatoes on the grill and cook until the skin blisters and softens.

Step 5: Serve hot kebabs with chelow (saffron rice), grilled tomatoes, fresh herbs, lavash bread, and sumac powder sprinkled on top.

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