Kebabs are a perfect evening snack—flavorful, juicy, and easy to make at home. Whether you prefer vegetarian or non-vegetarian options, this guide will help you prepare the perfect kebabs from scratch.
Types of Kebabs You Can Make at Home
- Chicken Seekh Kebab – Minced chicken mixed with spices and grilled on skewers.
- Mutton Shami Kebab – Ground mutton with lentils, shaped into patties, and shallow-fried.
- Hara Bhara Kebab – A vegetarian option with spinach, peas, and potatoes.
- Paneer Tikka – Marinated paneer cubes grilled on skewers.
- Fish Tikka Kebab – Fish marinated in spices and grilled to perfection.
Ingredients for Basic Chicken Seekh Kebab
Serves: 4 | Preparation Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 500g minced chicken
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tbsp fresh coriander (chopped)
- 1 tbsp green chili (chopped)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- ½ tsp black pepper powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp gram flour (besan)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 egg (for binding)
- 2 tbsp oil (for brushing)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Step-by-Step Cooking Method
Step 1: Preparing the Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine minced chicken, chopped onions, ginger-garlic paste, green chilies, and coriander.
- Add gram flour, spices (garam masala, cumin, chili powder, black pepper), salt, lemon juice, and egg.
- Mix well until the mixture is sticky and holds together. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes for better binding.
Step 2: Shaping the Kebabs
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning.
- Take a handful of the mixture and wrap it around the skewer, shaping it into a long, cylindrical kebab.
- Repeat the process for the remaining mixture.
Step 3: Cooking the Kebabs
- Pan-frying: Heat oil in a pan and cook the kebabs on medium heat until golden brown on all sides.
- Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high and grill the kebabs for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Oven-baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning midway.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with mint chutney, onion rings, and lemon wedges.
- Pair with parathas or pita bread for a wholesome meal.
- Enjoy with a cup of masala chai or a refreshing cold drink.
Tips for Perfect Kebabs
✔ Keep the mixture slightly sticky for better binding.
✔ Use wooden skewers if making for kids (metal ones can get too hot).
✔ For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or barbecue seasoning.
✔ Marinate the mixture for longer to enhance taste.
