Pakistani Food Culture and Kebabs Naan
The history of Pakistani food is mostly inherited from Indian culture. Most Pakistani dishes are part of Indian cuisine however many new dishes have been added. Pakistani food incorporates Central Asian, Middle Eastern, and Afghan Culture. The Mughlai influence can be mostly seen in Pakistani foods.
In Pakistan, the trend of food varies from region to region. It reflects the country’s cultural and ethnic diversity. Food trends of Sindh and eastern provinces of Punjab are much alike. These foods are usually highly spicy and seasoned, and these trends have been taken from the South Asian Region.
Cuisines in other parts of Pakistan such as Azad Kashmir, Baluchistan, Gilgit Baltistan, Federally Administered tribal areas and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also have distinct tastes based on different regions.
Fast food and international cuisine are mostly common in city areas. The fusion food (a mixture of local and international food) is most common in large urban centers. Moreover, due to lifestyle changes, mixed and ready to use spices are also becoming famous. However, due to the cultural diversity of Pakistan, the trends of cuisine varies from region to region and home to home.
Kebab Naans of Pakistani Food:
These are the specialty of Pashtun cuisine. This spicy dish is made with a combination of minced mutton or beef. The distinct taste of Kabab comes from the spices such as green chillis, mint, dried coriander, and pomegranate seeds.
There are several variations of Kebab but the most famous is the Chapli Kebab. The name of Chapli Kebab originated from Pashto word “chaprikh” which means flat. Even though the trend of Chapli Kebab started in Peshawar but now it is famous throughout Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan.
Variations of Kebabs:
Seekh Kebab:
This is the most famous Kebab in Pakistan. These can be made of chicken, lamb, goat, or beef. You will need to mince the meat before using it. Then combine the meat with all the spices and wrap it onto skewers. Next, head up the grill. This type of Kebab is very similar to Shami Kebab that is also prepared from minced meat.
Shami Kebab:
This has originated from Indian Food culture. It got very popular in Pakistan, Afghan, Azerbaijan, and Iran. Shami Kebab can be made of meat (beef or lamb) and chickpeas with the combination of hot spices.
Chapli Kebab:
Chapli Kebab or Peshawri Kebab is a Mughlai influenced minced Kebab. It is usually made from mutton, chicken, or beef with many spices in the form of a patty.
How to eat Kebab?
Kebabs are one of the traditional foods in Pakistan. Despite being originated from Peshawari culture, Kebab is loved in all other areas of Pakistan as well. Kebabs make a perfect combination with Naans. Whether its Chapli kebab, Shami kebab, or Seekh kebab, Naan will increase your taste.
How to make Chapli Kebab?
As we know Chapli kebab is very popular in Pakistan. Combined with the blend of spices, the beef crush into circles and shallow-fried. The patty should have an over-cooked exterior for an amazing look and taste. Mostly served in a traditional bun with pickled red onions, Rita and Naan, Chapli Kebab will take itself on the list of your favorites.
Ingredients:
- Serving cooking spray (1)
- Lightly beaten egg (1)
- Ground beef (1 pound)
- Finely chopped tomato (1)
- chopped red onion (1)
- Finely chopped cilantro (1/4 cup)
- Finely chopped mint (1/4 cup)
- Ginger-garlic paste (2 teaspoons)
- Crushed coriander seeds (2 teaspoons)
- Salt (1 teaspoon)
- Ground cumin (3/4 teaspoon)
- Ground cayenne pepper (3/4 teaspoon)
- Vegetable oil (1/4 cup)
- Eaches tomato sliced into rounds (2)
Procedure:
Step 1:
The first step is to spray a small skillet with a cooking spray. Then warm it over medium-high flame. Pour an egg into the skillet, stir, and cook until it scrambles and set for 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 2:
Combine beef, scrambled egg, onion, chopped tomato, cilantro, mint, coriander seeds, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Mix all ingredients nicely and shape the paste into patties. Press a slice of tomato into the middle of each patty.
Step 3:
Take a deep skillet and heat oil in it to 190 degrees Celsius. Cook patties one by one in the hot oil until charred. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side.
Famous spots in Pakistan for Kebab
Pakistan is famous for its local food. Wherever you are in Pakistan, you will find the delicious local food in that area. Many local restaurants serve the best Kebabs Naan in the area. Some of these spots have been compiled in the list below.
- Jalil Kebab House
- Mardan Naan Centre and Chapli Kebab
- Naan Kebab
- Afghani Kebab House
- Kabab- e- Dagh
- Istanbul Restaurant
Qissa Khawani Bazar :
Eating kebabs Naan in Pakistan is just like giving yourself a party. Near to Pakistan Afghan border, a historical city of Pakistan “Peshawar” is situated. In the heart of Peshawar, “Qissa Khawani Bazar” is situated. The Tikka kebab and Chapli kebab of Qissa Khawani Bazar is the famous delicacies. When people come to Peshawar, they love to eat street food of this Bazar.
My favorite place in Pakistan for eating Kebab :
As I have tasted kebab in various cities of Pakistan. The taste and recipe vary from region to region and even from cook to cook. Whenever I am in Karachi, I go to Sheikh Abdul Ghaffar Kabab House. They are known for serving the best Naan in the town. They have a wide menu ranging from Chicken Kebabs to Beef/ Mutton and even Sea Foods and Drinks. I always pair Kebabs with Naan and believe me this is the most delicious food on my list than anything else.
Final Thoughts :
If you are coming to explore Pakistan, you must have a to-do list in your hands. Have you already put eating Kebabs Naan on your list? If no, then add it. Once you try this delicious dish, you will not forget its taste ever. Every area of Pakistan has merged its tradition in their local food. The taste can vary but you will love the taste from wherever you try.
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