Old Delhi's Famous Mutton Seekh Kebabs

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground mutton, ginger-garlic paste, finely chopped green chilies, and half of the chopped fresh cilantro. Mix well to combine.

Step 2: Add Dry Spices

Add salt, crushed red chili powder, cumin powder, chickpea flour, turmeric powder, and homemade garam masala to the meat mixture. Mix thoroughly by hand, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Incorporate Remaining Cilantro

Add the remaining half of the chopped fresh cilantro to the meat mixture. Mix again until fully incorporated. The mixture should be well-combined and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Shape the Kebabs

Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking. Take a portion of the meat mixture and carefully shape it around a thick iron skewer, starting from the center and spreading it evenly towards both ends. Ensure the kebab is uniformly thick along the skewer.

Step 5: Grill the Kebabs

Place the skewers over hot charcoal. The square shape of the skewers helps them stay in place without rotating. Grill, turning frequently, for approximately 2 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred on the outside.

Step 6: Baste with Butter

During the grilling process, baste the kebabs generously with melted butter (ghee) to enhance flavor and create a smoky aroma. This will also cause flames to flare up, adding to the char.

Step 7: Serve the Kebabs

Once cooked, carefully remove the kebabs from the skewers into a serving bowl. Pour additional melted butter over them, then transfer four kebabs onto a foil plate. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of fresh garam masala, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Step 8: Enjoy!

The kebabs are ready to be enjoyed. Notice the tender texture, the beautiful char, and the aromatic spices.

• Wet hands with water while shaping the kebabs to prevent the meat mixture from sticking.

• Use thick iron skewers to conduct heat from the charcoal, cooking the kebab from the inside out for even cooking.

• Baste generously with butter (ghee) during grilling to add flavor and achieve a beautiful char.

• Adjust chili and spice levels according to personal preference.

• Chicken Seekh Kebab: Use ground chicken instead of mutton, seasoned with a lighter blend of spices to highlight the delicate flavor of the chicken.