Shami Kebabs: The Small Bite That Packs a Giant Punch
In a menu filled with kebab legends like Galawati and Seekh, it’s easy to overlook the Shami Kebab. But at Tunday Kababi Dubai, this small yet mighty patty demands attention. It may be compact, but it’s full of flavour, heritage, and texture—a quiet star in our Awadhi lineup that never fails to leave an impression.
Table of Contents
- The Origin of Shami Kebab
- How It’s Made at Tunday
- What Makes It Stand Out
- How to Enjoy It Best
- Taste It in Dubai
The Origin of Shami Kebab
Rooted in Mughal culinary traditions, the Shami Kebab is believed to have been introduced by Syrian (Sham) cooks who brought their unique technique of blending meat and pulses into compact, richly spiced patties. Over time, this kebab evolved into a Lucknowi favourite, cherished for its soft texture and warm, earthy spice profile.
At its core, the Shami Kebab is a clever combination of finely minced mutton, soaked chana dal (split chickpeas), and a special blend of whole spices. It’s a dish born out of culinary ingenuity—designed to be convenient, satisfying, and deeply flavourful.
How It’s Made at Tunday
At Tunday Kababi, the making of a Shami Kebab is a labour of love. The mutton is minced to the perfect consistency and slow-cooked with chana dal until both meld into a smooth, fragrant mass. Whole spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and black pepper are added during the cooking process, infusing the mixture with warmth and complexity.
Once cooled, the mixture is hand-shaped into small patties and pan-fried in ghee until golden brown. The outside is crisp and lightly caramelised, while the inside stays soft, rich, and full of spice. Every patty is made fresh in-house, using techniques passed down through generations of Lucknowi chefs.
What Makes It Stand Out
What gives the Shami Kebab its charm is its delicate balance of texture and flavour. It’s not fiery or overwhelming. Instead, it whispers its spice notes—earthy, warm, and comforting—with a melt-in-the-mouth softness that contrasts beautifully with its crispy exterior.
Unlike other kebabs, the Shami is incredibly versatile. It can be a solo snack, a side dish, a sandwich filling, or even part of a full-course meal. It doesn’t shout for attention—it earns it with quiet brilliance.
How to Enjoy It Best
The classic way to enjoy a Shami Kebab is with mint chutney and sliced onions, where the freshness of the garnish balances the richness of the meat. But it’s also a favourite in our Bun Shami, where the kebab is slipped between a lightly toasted bun and dressed with chutney and onions—making it the perfect handheld treat.
It pairs wonderfully with a cup of cold sweet lassi, or even as an add-on to your biryani or gravied meal. However you choose to enjoy it, the Shami Kebab has a way of making every plate better.
Taste It in Dubai
Al Hudaiba Awards Building, Al Mina Street, Jumeirah Dubai
Tunday Kababi Dubai is proud to bring this humble yet iconic dish to your table. Come and taste the Shami Kebab—a small bite that delivers big on tradition, flavour, and soul.
