Last Updated on December 11, 2023
Persian beef kabob is a traditional, flavorful, and aromatic dish from Iran. It is a delicious combination of beef, vegetables, and spices that has been used for centuries in Middle Eastern cooking. This kabob is a great way to enjoy a flavorful meal that is both healthy and satisfying.
What is persian beef kabob?
Persian beef kabob is a traditional dish that originates in Iran. It is made with beef, vegetables, and a blend of spices. The beef is usually cut into cubes or strips and marinated overnight in a blend of spices and herbs.
The marinated beef is then skewered onto metal or wooden skewers and grilled. The vegetables are also skewered and cooked alongside the beef. The final dish is served with a variety of accompaniments such as rice, pita bread, and sauces.
Why You’ll Love this persian beef kabob recipe?
This Persian beef kabob recipe is a great way to enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal. The marinade adds flavor and tenderizes the beef, while the vegetables add freshness and crunch.
This recipe is easy to make and you can modify it to your taste by adding different spices and herbs. It’s a great way to get creative in the kitchen and to enjoy a delicious meal.
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The Ingredients
2 teaspoons of fragrant sumac spice from the Middle East: Sumac adds a tangy, citrusy flavor to the kabobs. Its tartness helps balance the richness of the meat and contributes to the unique Middle Eastern flavor profile.
2.5 pounds of lean ground beef (80/20 blend) or 1 pound of exceptionally tender ground beef coupled with 1 pound of premium ground lamb: This combination of beef and lamb provides a balance of flavors. The beef offers a robust taste, while the lamb adds a distinct richness and depth to the kabobs.
1.5 cups of finely grated sweet Vidalia onion: Vidalia onions are known for their sweetness and mild flavor. They not only add moisture to the meat mixture but also impart a subtle sweetness that complements the spices and herbs.
1 cup of freshly harvested cilantro, finely chopped: Cilantro brings a bright, fresh herbaceous note to the kabobs. Its citrusy undertones add complexity to the overall taste.
2 teaspoons of Himalayan pink salt: Salt is essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients and helps in binding the meat together, while Himalayan pink salt also contributes a subtle mineral flavor.
2 teaspoons of whole coriander seeds, freshly ground for enhanced aroma: Coriander seeds, when freshly ground, release a fragrant, citrusy flavor that complements the other spices and herbs in the recipe. It adds depth and complexity to the kabobs.
2 teaspoons of organic turmeric, divided for layered flavor: Turmeric not only provides a vibrant golden color but also adds earthy, slightly bitter notes. Dividing the turmeric allows for layering the flavor throughout the dish.
1/4 teaspoon of freshly cracked Tellicherry black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle heat and pungency to the kabobs. Its spiciness balances the other flavors in the recipe.
Directions
Step 1 – Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Ground beef (either the 80/20 blend or a mix of tender beef and lamb).
- Finely grated Vidalia onion.
- Chopped cilantro.
- Himalayan pink salt.
- Sumac spice.
- Freshly ground coriander seeds.
- Half the amount of turmeric (1 teaspoon).
- Freshly cracked black pepper.
Step 2 – Mix Thoroughly:
- Use your hands to gently but thoroughly mix the ingredients until evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture. Ensure all the spices and herbs are well incorporated.
Step 3 – Marinate the Mixture:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to a sealable bag.
- Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours. For enhanced flavors, marinating overnight is recommended.
Step 4 – Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 5 – Shape the Kabobs:
- Take a portion of the marinated meat mixture and mold it onto the skewers.
- Shape the meat into long, even cylinders or patties along the length of the skewer. Ensure they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Step 6 – Grilling the Kabobs:
- Place the prepared kabobs onto the preheated grill.
- Cook for approximately 4-6 minutes on each side, or until the kabobs are cooked to your desired level of doneness and have a nice char on the outside.
Step 7 – Serve Hot:
- Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot alongside your choice of sides such as rice, grilled vegetables, or flatbread.
Step 8 – Garnish and Enjoy:
- Optionally, garnish the kabobs with a sprinkle of extra sumac or fresh cilantro before serving.
- Enjoy the flavorful Persian beef kabobs!
Notes
– Make sure to marinate the beef for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
– Be sure to turn the kabobs occasionally when grilling to ensure even cooking.
– If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10-15 minutes before use to prevent them from burning.
– If desired, you can also add other vegetables to the kabobs such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
– You can also substitute the beef with chicken, lamb, or pork.
Storage Tips
The kabobs can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. To reheat, place the kabobs in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving:
Calories: 290 | Fat: 19g | Sodium: 380mg | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 24g
Serving Suggestions
– Serve the kabobs with a side of rice.
– Top the kabobs with a dollop of yogurt.
– Serve the kabobs with a side of grilled vegetables.
– Serve the kabobs over a bed of lettuce.
– Serve the kabobs with a side of hummus.
– Top the kabobs with a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
What other substitute can I use in persian beef kabob recipe?
– Lamb: Lamb is a great substitute for beef in this recipe. It is a bit fattier, so it will take a bit longer to cook.
– Pork: Pork is a great substitute for beef in this recipe. It is a bit sweeter, so it will take a bit longer to cook.
– Chicken: Chicken is a great substitute for beef in this recipe. It is leaner, so it will cook faster than beef.
– Vegetables: If you don’t want to use beef, you can also use a variety of vegetables as a substitute. Zucchini, mushrooms, eggplant, and bell peppers are all great options.
– Spices: You can also substitute the spices in this recipe with other spices and herbs of your choice.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons of fragrant sumac spice from the Middle East
- 2.5 pounds of lean ground beef 80/20 blend or 1 pound of exceptionally tender ground beef coupled with 1 pound of premium ground lamb
- 1.5 cups of finely grated sweet Vidalia onion
- 1 cup of freshly harvested cilantro finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons of Himalayan pink salt
- 2 teaspoons of whole coriander seeds freshly ground for enhanced aroma
- 2 teaspoons of organic turmeric divided for layered flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly cracked Tellicherry black pepper
Instructions
STEP 1 – Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (either the 80/20 blend or the combination of tender beef and lamb).
- Add in the finely grated Vidalia onion, chopped cilantro, Himalayan pink salt, sumac spice, freshly ground coriander seeds, half the amount of turmeric (1 teaspoon), and the freshly cracked black pepper.
STEP 2 – Mix Thoroughly:
- Using your hands, gently but thoroughly mix the ingredients until they are evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture. Ensure all the spices and herbs are well incorporated.
STEP 3 – Marinate the Mixture:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to a sealable bag. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours. Marinating overnight will enhance the flavors.
STEP 4 – Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
STEP 5 – Shape the Kabobs:
- Take a portion of the marinated meat mixture and mold it onto the skewers, shaping it into long, even cylinders or patties along the length of the skewer. Ensure they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
STEP 6 – Grilling the Kabobs:
- Place the prepared kabobs onto the preheated grill. Cook for approximately 4-6 minutes on each side, or until the kabobs are cooked to your desired level of doneness and have a nice char on the outside.
STEP 7 – Serve Hot:
- Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot alongside your choice of sides such as rice, grilled vegetables, or flatbread.
STEP 8 – Garnish and Enjoy:
- Optionally, garnish the kabobs with a sprinkle of extra sumac or fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy the flavorful Persian beef kabobs!
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of beef should I use for this recipe?
It is best to use a cut of beef that is tender and flavorful, such as sirloin or tenderloin.
How long should I marinate the beef?
It is best to marinate the beef for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
What other vegetables can I add to the kabobs?
You can add other vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant to the kabobs.
Can I use wooden skewers?
Yes, you can use wooden skewers. Just make sure to soak them in water for 10-15 minutes before use to prevent them from burning.
How do I store the kabobs?
The kabobs can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. To reheat, place the kabobs in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through.
What can I serve with the kabobs?
The kabobs can be served with a variety of accompaniments such as rice, pita bread, and sauces. You can also top the kabobs with a dollop of yogurt or tzatziki sauce.
Conclusion
Persian beef kabob is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a variety of occasions. The marinade adds flavor and tenderizes the beef, while the vegetables add freshness and crunch. This recipe is easy to make and can be modified to your taste. Serve the kabobs with a variety of accompaniments such as rice, pita bread, and sauces. Enjoy!