Pakistani Seekh Kebab Recipe – Pakistani Special

Seekh Kebabs are a popular Pakistani dish made with spiced ground meat, shaped onto skewers, and grilled to perfection. These kebabs are packed with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and a smoky charred flavor. Traditionally cooked over charcoal, they can also be made on a stovetop or in the oven. Perfect for BBQs, gatherings, or a quick meal with naan and chutney. Let’s get started!

  • Prep Time20 min
  • Cook Time15 min
  • Total Time35 min

For the Kebabs:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb (preferably with some fat)
  • 1 small onion, finely grated and squeezed to remove excess water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional)
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for color)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon chaat masala (optional, for tanginess)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons gram flour (besan), lightly toasted (for binding)
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter or oil (for moisture)

For Cooking:

  • 1 tablespoon oil (for grilling or pan-frying)
  • Skewers (metal or wooden, soaked if using wooden)

For Garnish & Serving:

  • Sliced onions
  • Lemon wedges
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Mint chutney
  • Naan or paratha

Prepare the Kebab Mixture:

1

In a large bowl, combine ground meat, grated onion (squeezed dry), cilantro, mint, green chilies, garlic, and ginger paste.

2

Add salt, cumin, coriander, garam masala, red chili powder, paprika, black pepper, chaat masala, and lemon juice.

3

Mix in toasted gram flour and melted butter to help bind the mixture.

4

Knead well for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is smooth and sticky. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help it firm up.

Shape the Kebabs:

5

Lightly grease your hands with oil. Take a portion of the meat mixture and shape it around a skewer, forming a long, even kebab.

6

Repeat until all the mixture is used. If not using skewers, shape into small patties instead.

Cook the Kebabs:

7

Grill Method: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat and cook the kebabs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through.

8

Stovetop Method: Heat a grill pan or skillet with 1 tablespoon oil and cook kebabs for 4-5 minutes per side until charred and fully cooked.

9

Oven Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-18 minutes, turning halfway. For extra char, broil for 2 minutes at the end.

Serve:

10

Remove kebabs from skewers and serve hot with sliced onions, lemon wedges, fresh cilantro, and mint chutney.

11

Pair with naan, paratha, or basmati rice for a complete meal.

Recipe Notes:

Meat Choice : A mix of beef and lamb gives the best flavor. Use meat with at least 15-20% fat for juicy kebabs.

Binding Tip : Removing excess water from onions prevents the mixture from becoming too soft.

Smoky Flavor : For an authentic BBQ taste, place a hot coal in the bowl with the kebab mixture, add a drop of oil, cover, and let it smoke for 5 minutes before shaping.

Serving Suggestion : Serve with yogurt raita, tamarind chutney, or a fresh salad for a delicious meal.