Kabab Tabei Recipe Easy Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Taste

If you’re craving a flavorful and comforting Persian dish, Kabab Tabei is an absolute must-try. This skillet kebab is a beloved staple in Iranian households, known for its juicy, well-seasoned ground meat cooked to perfection in a simple pan.

Unlike traditional skewered kebabs, Kabab Tabei is made right on your stovetop, making it a convenient and accessible way to enjoy authentic Persian flavors anytime. The combination of aromatic spices, tender meat, and a slight char from the pan delivers a mouthwatering experience that’s both rustic and refined.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests with a homemade Persian feast, this recipe will guide you through every step with ease. From selecting the right ground meat to achieving that ideal texture, you’ll learn how to make Kabab Tabei that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly satisfying.

Let’s dive into this delicious journey and bring the taste of Iran straight to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Kabab Tabei is not just tasty; it’s incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. Unlike grilled kebabs that require outdoor equipment or skewers, this recipe only needs a simple skillet, making it perfect for apartment dwellers or anyone short on time.

The juicy, tender meat combined with the subtle spices creates an authentic Persian flavor profile that’s sure to impress.

This dish also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from fluffy saffron rice to fresh herbs and yogurt-based dips, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the ingredients are straightforward, budget-friendly, and often already in your pantry.

Whether you’re a seasoned Persian cuisine lover or a curious beginner, Kabab Tabei offers a delicious gateway into the rich culinary traditions of Iran.

Ingredients

• 500 grams ground beef or lamb (preferably 20% fat for juiciness)
• 1 medium onion, finely grated
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional but recommended)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter for frying
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Non-stick or cast-iron skillet (10-12 inches works best)
• Grater (for the onion)
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board (for garnishing herbs)
• Plate or serving dish

Instructions

1. Prepare the onion: Peel and finely grate the onion. You want it to be almost like a paste, which helps in tenderizing the meat and adding moisture.
2. Mix the meat and spices: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with the grated onion, turmeric, salt, pepper, and cumin. Use your hands to knead the mixture for about 5 minutes until all ingredients are well incorporated. This step ensures the meat binds together and is flavorful throughout.
3. Shape the kebab: Divide the meat mixture into equal portions (about 4-5). With wet hands, form each portion into a long, thin patty or oval shape approximately 6 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.
4. Heat the skillet: Preheat your skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil or melted butter. Allow the oil to get hot but not smoking.
5. Cook the kebabs: Place the shaped kebabs gently in the skillet, leaving space between each. Cook on medium heat for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them—this helps create a nice sear and crust.
6. Flip carefully: Using a spatula, carefully flip each kebab and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes. The kebabs should be browned and cooked through but still juicy inside.
7. Rest and garnish: Remove the kebabs from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes on a plate. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
8. Serve warm: Kabab Tabei is best served hot alongside your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

Tip: To keep your kebab mixture tender, avoid overmixing the meat or adding too much onion, which can make it soggy.

Variation: For a lighter version, substitute half of the ground meat with ground chicken or turkey, but note this will alter the traditional flavor slightly.

Tip: Adding a pinch of grated garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice into the meat mixture can enhance the aroma and flavor.

Variation: Serve these kebabs with grilled vegetables or wrap them in flatbread with fresh herbs and a dollop of yogurt for a delicious kebab sandwich.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Kabab Tabei pairs wonderfully with traditional Persian sides that complement its rich flavors. Serve it alongside Persian saffron rice or herb-stuffed rice (Sabzi Polo) to bring a fragrant, colorful plate to the table.

For a refreshing contrast, a side of fresh herbs such as mint, basil, and tarragon, along with sliced radishes and cucumbers, works beautifully. A bowl of creamy yogurt mixed with cucumber and mint, known as mast-o-khiar, adds a cool and tangy element that balances the richness of the kebab.

If you’re looking for a heartier meal, Persian roasted eggplant dip (Kashk-e Bademjan) is a perfect accompaniment to round out your meal.

Conclusion

In summary, Kabab Tabei is a delightful Persian dish that brings the essence of traditional kebabs into a simple, convenient skillet preparation. Its juicy texture, aromatic spices, and ease of cooking make it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

By following this recipe, you can create an authentic taste of Persian cuisine that will impress family and friends alike.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs and spices to make the recipe your own, and pair it with complementary Persian sides to enjoy a well-rounded, flavorful meal. Whether you’re new to Iranian cooking or a longtime admirer, Kabab Tabei is a satisfying and delicious dish you’ll want to add to your culinary repertoire.

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