Bun Kabab

Name: Bun Kabab
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Pakistan
Ingredients: Minced beef — 500 g (1 lb 2 oz); Cooked chana dal (split chickpeas) — 85 g (3 oz); Onion, finely chopped — 1; Garlic, minced — 2 cloves; Cumin — 1 tsp; Garam masala — 1 tsp; Egg, for binding — 1; Oil, for frying; Soft buns — 4; Fried eggs, to serve — 4; Chutney and sliced onion, to serve

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Servings

Ingredients

Minced beef — 500 g (1 lb 2 oz)
Cooked chana dal (split chickpeas) — 85 g (3 oz)
Onion, finely chopped — 1
Garlic, minced — 2 cloves
Cumin — 1 tsp
Garam masala — 1 tsp
Egg, for binding — 1
Oil, for frying
Soft buns — 4
Fried eggs, to serve — 4
Chutney and sliced onion, to serve

Method

Combine the minced beef, cooked chana dal, onion, garlic, cumin, garam masala and egg, mixing thoroughly (or pulse briefly in a food processor for a smoother texture).
Shape into flat, round patties.
Heat a little oil in a frying pan and fry the patties for 4–5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
Warm the buns lightly.
Assemble each bun with a patty, a fried egg, chutney and sliced onion.

Introduction: A spiced patty of minced meat and lentils, served in a soft bun with chutney and egg, Pakistan's beloved answer to the burger.

Cultural Background: Bun kabab is a hugely popular Pakistani street food, especially in Karachi, its combination of a well-spiced patty, soft bun and tangy chutney making it a satisfying, portable meal enjoyed at any time of day.

Tips: The chana dal helps bind the mixture and adds a distinctive texture — don't skip it. Fry the patties over medium heat so they cook through without burning on the outside.

Variations: Add a slice of cheese for a richer version. Serve with a spicy green chutney for extra heat.

Storage: Refrigerate cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat the patties in a dry pan for a few minutes per side; assemble fresh buns.

FAQs:

Q: What is chana dal?

A: Split, husked chickpeas, used here to add texture and body to the meat patty, a distinctive feature of bun kabab.

Q: Where is bun kabab especially popular?

A: Karachi is particularly famous for its bun kabab, though it's enjoyed as a street food across Pakistan.