By Akshara
May 27, 2026
Shami kebabs are the ultimate festive delicacy, known for their melt-in-the-mouth texture and deep, complex spice profile. Made by slow-cooking minced meat with split chickpeas (chana dal) and whole spices, they are then ground into a smooth paste and shallow-fried. These kebabs are rich, savoury, and incredibly aromatic, making them a sophisticated centrepiece for your festive spread that pairs beautifully with mint chutney and thin onion rings. Ingredients
250g minced meat (mutton or lamb)  1/2 cup chana dal, soaked  1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste  1 tsp each: cumin, coriander, red chilli powder, and garam masala  1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 egg (for binding)
Cook the minced meat and chana dal with the whole spices and enough water until everything is tender and the moisture is fully evaporated.
Remove the cinnamon and cloves, then grind the mixture into a fine, smooth paste using a food processor.
Mix in the finely chopped onion, fresh coriander, and the egg to bind the paste, then shape into small, flat rounds.
Shallow-fry the kebabs in a pan over medium heat until both sides are dark brown and crispy, then serve hot.