The Irresistible Tale of Kababs: A Voyage from Persia to India’s Soul

In the realm of snacks, kebab is well-known for its unique, melt-in-your-mouth flavor. Spices are what truly make them Indian when prepared. There are several non-vegetarian choices accessible in the Indian kitchen, ranging from Shami kebab to Seekh kebab. Indeed, there are vegetarian alternatives that have Indian origins, such as Dahi Ke Kebab, Paneer Tikka, and Hariali Kebab.

Where did the Kebab come from?

Looking back in time, we may find that the kebab originated from the practice of soldiers grilling pieces of freshly killed skewered meat on swords over open-air fires while adding ground spices. This method provided the soldiers with instant energy and improved their health during combat. 

Kebab, also known as kabob (North America), kebap, or kabab, is roasted beef that comes from the Middle East and is popularized by Iranian, Arabic, and Turkish cuisine.  Turkey is regarded as the kebab's homeland. The Arabic term "Cabob," which means to burn or char, is the root of the English word "kebab." The Persian term "kabāb," which partially entered English through Hindustani and Turkish, is most likely where the name "kebab" originated in the late 17th century. Linguist Sevan Nişanyan claims that the Persian term kabāb, which refers to roasted meat, is also the source of the Turkish word kebap.

The Fascinating Migration of Kebabs to Indian Kitchens

Kebabs made their way to India as trade routes grew and civilizations mixed. They had a lovely makeover here, merging in with the rich combination of Indian tastes, spices, and cooking methods. Kebabs were infused with herbs, spices, and marinades by Indian cooks, resulting in a vivid palette of regional varieties. 

During the Delhi Sultanate (1206–1526 CE), the kebab was provided in the royal households, and even commoners would eat it for breakfast with naan, according to the Maghrebi traveler Ibn Battuta. Besides, the love of kebabs unites the streets of Old Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Patna, and Lucknow if there's one thing in common. 

Original Source: Kebab

Kebabs Across India: Mouthwatering Picks for Food Lovers

We feel that every non-vegetarian in India needs to be familiar with the range of kebabs that are served here. With their strong flavor and aroma, these kebabs, which are often made with chicken or mutton, will have you drooling. To help you sample them all, we've compiled a list of the best 12 kebabs.

Take a look at this list of must-have kebabs and start tasting the ultimate meat-lovers heaven:

Original Source: List of Kebabs

1.Hari Kabab

Origin: Muslims invented the Bihari kabab in the North Indian state of Bihar. 

Description: Skewered pieces of meat marinated in spice.

Best Places to Find: Hotels in Bihar, such as Patna Mahangu Hotel 

2. Boti Kebab

Origin: Lucknow cuisine

Description: The boti kebab is prepared by marinating pieces of meat in a spice mix, skewering them, and then cooking them over a grill.

Best Places to Find: Traditional Indian restaurants, kebab joints, and many hotels in Lucknow.

3. Shish Kebab

Origin: Turks

Description: The popular grilled lamb dish shish kebab is made up of tiny marinated meat pieces that are skewered and cooked on a spit or skewer.

Best Places to Find: You can get it from Piccadilly Cafe and other hotels in Mumbai

4. Galawat Kabab

Origin: Lucknow cuisine

Description: A variant of Shami kebab made without any admixture or binding agents, comprising only minced meat and spices

Best Places to Find: Authentic Awadhi or Lucknawi cuisine restaurants

5. Hariyali Kabab

Origin: Punjabi cuisine

Description: Chicken tikka or kebab made with a combination of mint and coriander.

Best Places to Find: Punjabi restaurants and eateries specializing in tandoori dishes.

6. Kakori Kabab

Origin: Lucknow and Delhi

Description: Made of minced beef meat with spices, it is a specialty of the Muslims of Lucknow and Delhi.

Best Places to Find: Authentic Awadhi or Lucknawi cuisine restaurants.

7. Galauti Kebab

Origin: Lucknow cuisine

Description: Smoked patty prepared using leg of lamb with onion, garlic, ginger, saffron, and spices, cooked on a griddle.

Best Places to Find: Authentic Awadhi or Lucknawi cuisine restaurants.

8. Tangri Kebab

Origin: Punjabi cuisine

Description: Chicken legs roasted on an open fire with hot spices and laced with butter or ghee.

Best Places to Find: Punjabi restaurants and tandoori eateries

9. Kalmi Kebab

Origin: Baluchistan, Pakistan

Description: Kalmi Kebab, a well-loved appetizer from Mughlai cuisine, features chicken marinated and grilled to perfection.

Best Places to Find: Al Nawaz restaurant in Jasola and other major hotels in Delhi

10. Reshmi Kabab

Origin: Mughlai cuisine

Description: A traditional kebab prepared with marinated chicken, lamb, or meat.

Best Places to Find: Mughlai restaurants and eateries specializing in Mughlai cuisine.

11. Shami Kebab

Origin: Hyderabad cuisine 

Description: Minced meat with lentils, onions, coriander, and green chilies, shaped into discs and fried.

Best Places to Find: Many restaurants and hotels in Hyderabad offer Shami Kebab, but Ghansi Bazaar is a good choice. 

12. Sutli Kebab

Origin: Bangladesh

Description: Meat paste and spices wrapped around a metal skewer, tied with cotton thread, and grilled.

Best Places to Find: Traditional kebab joints and Lucknawi cuisine restaurants

The Modern Kebab Story

Chefs are experimenting with novel ingredients and preparation methods as kebabs continue to change and adapt in today's food scene. While fusion kebabs blend traditional flavors with international influences to create fascinating new culinary experiences, Hara Bhara Kababs, vegetarian kebabs prepared from paneer, veggies, or even fruits, satisfy the rising desire for plant-based choices.

Final Thoughts

From its ancient origins to its modern-day popularity, the journey of kebabs to Indian kitchens is a testament to the cultural exchange and culinary innovation that define Indian cuisine. Today, kebabs continue to delight food enthusiasts worldwide, reminding us of the rich history and flavorful traditions that shape our culinary experiences. These unique kebabs offer a tantalizing variety of flavors and textures, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of India. Whether you're in any city across India check out some of the top hotels in Mumbai, Hyderabad, or Punjab to find these delicious kebabs to satisfy your cravings.