Lamb Boti Kebab: A Barbecue Treat
- Steve Holloway
- Aug 14
- 5 min read
Welcome to Stevie’s Curry Magic, where we explore the vibrant flavours and rich traditions of South Asian cuisine! Today, we’re diving into Boti Kebab, a beloved dish from Indian and Pakistani kitchens. Made from tender chunks of marinated meat - often lamb, beef, or chicken - Boti Kebab is skewered and grilled or cooked in a tandoor, resulting in juicy, smoky bites bursting with flavour. The marinade, a blend of yogurt, spices, herbs, and a splash of lemon juice, ensures each piece is succulent and aromatic. Commonly served as an appetizer or snack alongside chutneys, sliced onions, and warm flatbreads, Boti Kebab is a favourite at barbecues and festive gatherings. Let’s discover how you can bring this classic dish to your table with Stevie’s Curry Magic!
"I would dearly like to share the inspiration behind today’s delicious journey into Boti Kebab! Credit to Mridula Baljekar and "The Complete Indian Cookbook" for the foundational recipe and culinary inspiration that help bring these vibrant, smoky kebabs to life in home kitchens, making every bite a celebration of South Asian tradition and flavour. - Stevie"
Cuisine -Indian - Snack or a Starter
Table of contents
Nutrition values for Boti kebab
Expand for nutritional values
For a standard serving of Boti Kebab (using lamb and the listed ingredients, excluding bread or chutney), one portion (about 175g cooked) contains approximately: 300–350 calories, 25–28g protein, 20–22g fat (of which 7–8g is saturated fat), 5–7g carbohydrates, and around 1g fiber. It’s also a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc due to the lamb, while the yogurt adds calcium and probiotics. Note that the nutritional values can vary depending on the type of meat used, portion size, and any added accompaniments.
Serves 6 Preparation time 20 minutes, Marinating time 1 hour minimum, Cooking time around 15-20 minutes, Overall time around 1hr 40 minutes.
Recipe Difficulty level - Beginner-Friendly
Special equipment - Spice grinder - Barbecue - Grill
Heat level - Mild - Medium
A little history
Boti kebab is a popular South Asian dish with roots in Mughlai cuisine, originating from the Indian subcontinent, particularly during the Mughal Empire (16th–19th centuries). The word "boti" means "piece" in Hindi and Urdu, referring to the small chunks of marinated meat—typically lamb, mutton, or beef—skewered and grilled over charcoal. The Mughal emperors were known for their lavish feasts and introduced various kebabs, blending Persian techniques with local spices. Over time, boti kebab became a staple in Indian and Pakistani cuisine, celebrated for its tender texture and rich, aromatic flavours.
Recipe for lamb Boti Kebab
Ingredients:
700g/1lbs boned leg of lamb
2 small cloves of garlic, peeled and chopped
2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
2 tablespoons lemon juice
75g/3oz thick set natural yogurt
Salt to taste
½ teaspoons ground turmeric
2 tablespoons cooking oil
Grind the following 4 ingredients in a coffee grinder.
6 green cardamons
1 cinnamon stick, 1-inch long
2-3 dried red chillies
1 tablespoons coriander seeds
For a fresh and vibrant garnish, consider using thinly sliced onion rings, crisp lettuce leaves, and cucumber wedges.
How to make Boti Kebab
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1. Prepare the Meat:
Wash the meat and pat it dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. Using a sharp knife, prick the meat all over, then cut into 1- to 1.5-inch cubes.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, coriander leaves, lemon juice, and yogurt. Blend until smooth. Add salt, turmeric, and any other ground spices from your ingredient list; blend again to mix well.
3. Marinate the Meat:
Place the meat cubes in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the meat and mix thoroughly to coat all pieces. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 6–8 hours, or overnight for best results.
Cooking the Kebabs
4. Prepare the Grill:
Preheat your grill to high. Line the grill pan with aluminum foil for easier cleanup and better heat reflection.
5. Thread the Meat:
Thread the marinated meat cubes onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking. (Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.)
6. Reserve Remaining Marinade:
If there is any leftover marinade, mix it with a little oil and set aside for basting.
7. Grill the Kebabs:
- Place the skewers on the prepared grill pan.
- Grill for 2–3 minutes, then turn the skewers and grill for another 2–3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Brush the kebabs with the reserved marinade and oil mixture, and grill for another 6–8 minutes.
- Turn the skewers again, brush with more marinade if desired, and grill for a final 6–8 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through but still juicy.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot as a starter, garnished with lemon wedges, onion rings, and fresh coriander.
- For parties, serve on cocktail sticks as an appetizer, or as a side dish with your main meal.
Variations
You can substitute pork or chicken fillet for the meat if desired, and for added flavor and colour, consider threading chunks of bell pepper and onion onto the skewers along with the meat.
Tips
Do not overcook! Follow the recommended cooking times to ensure the kebabs remain tender and succulent.
Goes well with:
Frequently asked questions for Chicken Korma
What meat is traditionally used for Boti Kebab?
Traditionally, lamb or mutton is used, but chicken and beef variations are also popular.
How is Boti Kebab different from Seekh Kebab?
Boti Kebab is made from marinated chunks of meat grilled on skewers, while Seekh Kebab uses minced meat molded onto skewers and then grilled.
What are the key spices in Boti Kebab marinade?
Common spices include cumin, coriander, garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric, ginger, garlic, and yogurt for tenderness.
Can Boti Kebab be cooked in an oven or grill?
Boti Kebab can be prepared in a tandoor, charcoal grill, or a conventional oven
What are common accompaniments for Boti Kebab?
Boti Kebabs are often served with green chutney, sliced onions, lemon wedges, and naan or chapatti.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Boti Kebab is a delicious and aromatic classic that brings the vibrant flavors of South Asian cuisine straight to your kitchen. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a little patience for marinating, you can recreate this grill favorite at home, impressing friends and family alike. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Indian food or trying something new, this recipe from Stevie’s Curry Magic is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite garnishes and share your culinary creations with us—happy cooking!
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Cheers Steve.
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