Authentic Chicken Koobideh Kebab on Charcoal
If you are looking for a delicious and traditional Persian dish, the Chicken Koobideh Kebab is an excellent choice. This succulent dish, infused with the rich flavors of saffron and spices, is perfect for those who appreciate grilled delicacies. Cooking these Kebabs over charcoal imparts an irresistible smoky flavor, making them even more delectable. In this article, we will not only guide you through a step-by-step process to prepare this dish but also delve into its historical background and share tips to master the art of grilling these kebabs to perfection.
Ingredients
Serves 4-6 people
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground chicken breast | 500 grams |
| Onion | 1 large, grated |
| Brewed saffron | 2 tablespoons |
| Butter | 50 grams |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Garlic powder | to taste |
| Chickpea flour | 1 tablespoon |
| Flatbreads (such as Lavash) | as needed |
| Tomatoes | as needed |
| Skewers | as needed |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Kebab Mixture – Grate the onion and place it in a strainer. Press it with your hands to remove excess moisture. Add the drained onion, brewed saffron, butter, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the ground chicken. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined. For better consistency, add the chickpea flour to the mixture and knead until fully integrated. Let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance flavor and consistency.
Step 2: Shape and Skewer the Kebabs – Remove the kebab mixture from the refrigerator. Take a portion equivalent to the size of a small tangerine. Mold it smoothly around a skewer. For uniform kebabs, use specialized koobideh skewers. Prepare your grill and wait for the charcoal to become glowing and red-hot, providing the optimal heat for grilling.
Step 3: Grill the Kebabs – Arrange the kebabs on the grill and rotate them regularly to ensure even cooking. Before cooking, you may lightly oil the skewers to prevent sticking. The grilling process should take about 10 to 15 minutes, during which the kebabs should be rotated frequently to achieve uniform doneness. Additionally, grill some tomatoes and warm the flatbreads over gentle heat.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy – Once the kebabs are cooked, serve them with warm flatbreads and grilled tomatoes. Enjoy the delicious flavors of your homemade Chicken Koobideh Kebab!
Pro Tips
For added flavor, optionally include 100 grams of ground tail fat in the mixture. Using saffron is key to enhancing the aroma and taste, so ensure its quality. If you’re using an oven, bake the kebabs at 180°C for 5-10 minutes to achieve a crispy exterior. Experiment with spices like cumin or fennel powder for a personalized taste. Serve with a selection of sauces such as ketchup, spicy mayo, or French dressing for variation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken with ground beef or lamb. The process and seasoning remain the same, allowing you to enjoy a variation in flavor and texture.
Ensure the mixture is well-kneaded and refrigerated as this helps bind the ingredients. Using chickpea flour also adds to the cohesiveness, preventing the kebabs from falling apart during grilling.
Yes, wooden skewers can be used, but it’s crucial to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
