Chapli Kebab

Chapli Kebab

چپلی کباب (CHAP-lee keh-BAHB)

Flat Spiced Meat Patty

Prep Time 30 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
4
🔥 Calories 385 kcal

A broad, thin patty of seasoned ground beef mixed with tomatoes, onions, and a bold blend of spices, pan-fried until crispy-edged and juicy within. This iconic Pashtun kebab is Afghanistan's ultimate street food.

Nutrition & Info

380 kcal per serving
Protein 28.0g
Carbs 12.0g
Fat 25.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

gluten-free dairy-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ eggs

Equipment Needed

large skillet or flat griddle mixing bowl sharp knife

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine ground beef, diced onion, diced tomatoes, egg, green chilies, and fresh cilantro in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly with your hands.

  2. 2

    Add crushed coriander seeds, cumin seeds, red pepper flakes, pomegranate seed powder, and salt. Knead the mixture until spices are evenly distributed.

  3. 3

    Divide into 8 portions. Shape each into a flat, broad patty about 1cm thick and 12cm across — the key is thinness for maximum crispiness.

  4. 4

    Heat oil in a large skillet or on a flat griddle over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.

  5. 5

    Fry patties for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply browned and crispy on the edges while remaining juicy in the center.

  6. 6

    Serve hot with fresh naan, sliced onions, green chutney, and a squeeze of lemon juice on the side.

💡

Did You Know?

The name "chapli" comes from the Pashto word for flat, describing the distinctive broad shape that sets these kebabs apart from all others.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • large skillet or flat griddle
  • mixing bowl
  • sharp knife

The Story Behind Chapli Kebab

Chapli kebab is the crown jewel of Pashtun street food culture, originating in the borderlands between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The distinctive flat shape maximizes the ratio of crispy crust to juicy interior, a technique perfected over generations by Pashtun kebab makers. The addition of tomatoes and the bold use of whole spices distinguish chapli kebab from other regional meat preparations. In Jalalabad and Peshawar, entire streets are devoted to chapli kebab vendors, each claiming their family recipe produces the most flavorful patty.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed lunch, dinner, street food 📜 Origins: Pashtun culinary tradition

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