Shami Kebab Recipe – Authentic Pakistani/Indian Style
Shami kebabs are one of the most popular Pakistani and Indian kebab recipes, known for their melt-in-mouth texture and rich flavor. Made with ground beef or mutton, split chickpeas (chana dal), and aromatic spices, these kebabs are perfect for snacks, lunchboxes, or festive gatherings. Serve them with mint chutney, naan, or in a burger for a delicious twist!
🥘 Ingredients (Makes 12–15 Kebabs)
- 500g ground beef or mutton (with a little fat for softness)
- ½ cup split Bengal gram (chana dal), soaked for 1 hour
- 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
- 3–4 garlic cloves
- 1-inch piece ginger
- 3–4 green chilies (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander seeds
- 1 black cardamom (optional, for aroma)
- 4–5 black peppercorns
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- ½ tsp red chili powder
- 2 cups water (for cooking mixture)
- 1 egg (for binding while frying)
- 2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp mint leaves, chopped
- Oil for shallow frying
🔪 Instructions
-
Cook the mixture
- In a pot, add ground meat, soaked chana dal, onion, garlic, ginger, green chilies, whole spices, powdered spices, and water.
- Cook until the meat is tender, dal is soft, and water is completely absorbed.
-
Grind the mixture
- Remove whole spices (like bay leaf and cinnamon).
- Transfer the mixture to a grinder and blend into a smooth paste.
-
Add herbs & shape
- Mix in chopped coriander and mint.
- Shape into flat round patties (kebabs).
-
Fry the kebabs
- Dip each kebab in beaten egg.
- Shallow fry on medium heat until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
-
Serve hot with chutney, naan, or as a side dish with pulao.
🌟 Tips for Perfect Shami Kebabs
- Always cook until water dries completely before grinding – this prevents soggy kebabs.
- Add 1 boiled potato if the mixture feels too soft for binding.
- Freeze shaped kebabs (before frying) in layers with butter paper for easy meal prep.
- Reheat in a pan or air fryer for crispiness.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with green chutney and lemon wedges as a starter.
- Stuff into parathas or sandwiches for a filling snack.
- Add inside a burger bun with lettuce and sauce for a desi burger.
- Perfect side with chicken biryani or mutton pulao.
❓ FAQs about Shami Kebab
Q1: Can I make shami kebabs without eggs?
👉 Yes, use mashed potato or breadcrumbs as a binding alternative.
Q2: Can I freeze shami kebabs?
👉 Yes, shape and freeze in airtight containers. Fry directly from frozen when needed.
Q3: Which meat is best for shami kebabs?
👉 Traditionally beef or mutton is used, but chicken can also be substituted for a lighter version.
🔗 Similar Recipes You’ll Love
- Beef Seekh Kebab
- Chicken Chapli Kebab
- Chicken Malai Tikka
- Kofta Curry
- Aloo Tikki (Potato Cutlets)

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