Chelow kabab

Chelow Kabab

Chelow Kabab is a popular Persian dish that consists of grilled meat served with steamed saffron rice, known as "chelow". It is considered one of the national dishes of Iran and is widely enjoyed both in the country and by Persian communities around the world.

Ingredients

The main ingredients for Chelow Kabab include:

• **Meat**: Traditionally, Chelow Kabab is made with lamb or beef, although chicken or fish can also be used. The meat is typically marinated in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and various spices to enhance its flavor.

• **Rice**: The rice used for Chelow Kabab is typically a long-grain variety, such as Basmati rice. It is steamed and flavored with saffron, which gives it a vibrant yellow color and a distinct aroma.

• **Spices**: Common spices used in the marinade for the meat include turmeric, paprika, cumin, and black pepper. Additional spices may be added according to personal preference.

Preparation

To prepare Chelow Kabab, follow these steps:

1. **Marinate the meat**: In a bowl, combine the meat with yogurt, lemon juice, and the desired spices. Allow the meat to marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for a more intense flavor.

2. **Prepare the rice**: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add the rice. Cook until the rice is partially cooked, then drain and set aside.

3. **Grill the meat**: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated meat onto skewers and grill for about 10-15 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.

4. **Steam the rice**: In a large pot, melt butter or oil over low heat. Add a layer of partially cooked rice, then sprinkle saffron water over it. Repeat the layering process until all the rice is used. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and steam the rice over low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.

5. **Serve**: Serve the grilled meat on a bed of steamed saffron rice. Chelow Kabab is often accompanied by grilled tomatoes, onions, and fresh herbs such as parsley and mint. You can also serve it with a side of yogurt or a salad.

Variations

While the traditional Chelow Kabab recipe uses lamb or beef, there are several variations of this dish:

• **Chicken Kabab**: Substitute the meat with chicken pieces, marinated in a similar manner. Grilled chicken kababs are a popular alternative for those who prefer poultry.

• **Fish Kabab**: Replace the meat with fish fillets, such as salmon or white fish. Marinate the fish in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and spices before grilling.

• **Vegetarian Kabab**: For a vegetarian version, you can use grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Marinate the vegetables in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices before grilling.

See Also

• Persian Cuisine
• Kabab
• Basmati Rice