As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, many Muslims around the world eagerly prepare to break their fast with delicious and nourishing foods. And if you're looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make dish to serve during iftar or suhoor, then Chicken Gilafi Kebabs might just be the perfect option! This delectable appetizer is made with ground chicken mixed with a blend of fragrant spices, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. To add depth of flavour, the chicken mixture is also seasoned with onion, ginger, garlic, and fresh herbs like cilantro or mint. The mixture is then carefully wrapped around skewers and coated with a layer of finely chopped bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. This "veil" of vegetables gives the kebab its unique name, "gilafi," which means "covered" or "veiled" in Urdu. Grilling or baking the kebabs infuses them with smoky and charred flavours, resulting in a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with protein and nutrients. And with their handy skewer shape, these kebabs are perfect for sharing with family and friends during iftar gatherings or suhoor meals.
The taste of Chicken Gilafi Kebabs is truly a delight for the senses! From the first bite, you'll experience a burst of flavours and textures that come together in perfect harmony. The ground chicken mixture is seasoned with a medley of aromatic spices that lend a warm and complex flavour to the dish. The blend of cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala creates a rich and earthy flavour profile that's both bold and comforting. The addition of fresh herbs like cilantro or mint adds a bright and refreshing note that balances the dish and adds a pop of colour. As you bite into the crispy outer layer, you'll experience a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the tender and juicy chicken filling. The taste of Chicken Gilafi Kebabs is a true celebration of the rich and diverse flavours of North Indian/Pakistani cuisine. Whether you're enjoying them during Ramadan or any other time of year, these kebabs are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger paste
- 1 tbsp green chilli paste
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro or mint, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, finely chopped
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- Oil for grilling
Method
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, onion, garlic, ginger paste, green chilli paste, cilantro or mint, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and salt. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them around the wooden skewers, making sure the chicken mixture is evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Use this mixture to cover the chicken mixture, pressing down gently to help it stick.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the grill with some oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken Gilafi Kebabs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the outer layer is crispy and lightly charred.
- Serve hot with mint chutney or yoghurt sauce for dipping.