The Persian Jujeh Kabab recipe is a grilled chicken dish known for its tender texture and rich, flavorful marinade. The key to achieving the right consistency is marinating the chicken for several hours to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply. The marinade consists of a blend of ingredients that help tenderize the meat while infusing it with a balance of savory, tangy, and aromatic notes.
The choice of chicken used in the Persian Jujeh Kabab recipe is important for achieving the right texture. Boneless, skinless chicken pieces are often preferred for even cooking, though bone-in cuts can also be used for added juiciness. The chicken should be cut into uniform pieces to ensure consistent grilling and prevent overcooking or drying out. Proper marination allows the chicken to retain moisture and develop a more robust flavor.
Cooking the Persian Jujeh Kabab recipe requires the right balance of heat and timing. The chicken is traditionally grilled over an open flame or charcoal, which enhances the smoky aroma and adds depth to the flavor. The skewers should be turned regularly to ensure even cooking and prevent charring. If cooked on a stovetop or in an oven, the chicken should be monitored closely to maintain tenderness and avoid overcooking.
The Persian Jujeh Kabab recipe is best served immediately after grilling to preserve its juiciness. Resting the chicken for a few minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender. This dish is often accompanied by grilled vegetables or a side of rice to complement its bold flavors. Proper preparation and attention to detail are essential in achieving the perfect balance of tenderness and taste in this recipe.
About Us
We are John and Laurel Rodgers, an American couple with a passion for food and travel. Our adventures have taken us around the globe as we explore various cuisines.
We love collecting recipes from local restaurants and taking cooking classes. Each recipe we share brings a piece of the world to your kitchen.
Our goal is to inspire you to try new dishes and flavors.
We believe that cooking is an art and a way to connect with different cultures. One of our favorite recipes is Persian Jujeh Kabab, known for its rich flavors from saffron and lemon.
Nutritional Information
When preparing Jujeh Kabab, you not only enjoy a delicious meal but also benefit from:
- High Protein: Chicken is rich in protein, which is essential for muscle building.
- Healthy Fats: The use of olive oil in the marinade adds healthy fats.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Ingredients like lemon and saffron provide important nutrients.
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Why You’ll Love This Persian Jujeh Kabab Recipe
We love this Persian Jujeh Kabab recipe for its juicy, flavorful grilled chicken. The marinade combines saffron, lemon, and Greek yogurt to create a tender and delicious kabob that we think everyone will enjoy.
Here are a few reasons why this kabob recipe stands out:
- Easy to Prepare: The steps are straightforward, making it perfect for both new cooks and seasoned chefs.
- Versatile: You can use any type of chicken, whether it’s boneless or with bones, giving you options based on your preference.
Grilling or broiling the chicken adds a smoky taste that people love. Plus, it’s a great option for gatherings and outdoor barbecues.
We also suggest serving these kabobs with roasted vegetables, like carrots and bell peppers, for a complete meal.
The vibrant colors and flavors of this dish make it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Our friends and family ask for our Persian Jujeh Kabab every time we host!
Finally, this dish brings a taste of Persian cuisine right to your table, allowing us to explore diverse flavors in our cooking journey.
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets our Persian Jujeh Kabab apart is its unique marinade. We use saffron, a high-quality spice that adds a rich flavor and a beautiful color to the chicken. This is what truly elevates the dish.
The use of fresh lemon and lime juice adds a zing that complements the tender chicken. The acidity helps to break down proteins, making the meat juicy and soft.
Traditionally, Persian Jujeh Kabab is grilled over charcoal. This method infuses the chicken with a smoky flavor, enhancing its taste. Watching the kababs cook is an experience in itself!
Another special aspect is the cultural significance. Persian Jujeh Kabab is more than just a meal; it’s a part of Persian food heritage. Sharing this dish with friends and family creates lasting memories for us.
Key Ingredients
- Saffron: Gives flavor and color.
- Lemon & Lime Juice: Tenderizes chicken and adds brightness.
- Chicken: We prefer using thigh pieces for extra juiciness.
- Spices: A blend of spices adds authentic Persian flavors.
Using these ingredients together creates a delicious Persian chicken kebab. We invite you to try this chicken kabob recipe and experience the flavors of Persia in your kitchen!
Cooking Equipment Needed
To make Persian Jujeh Kabab, we need some essential cooking equipment. Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Grill Options:
- Outdoor Grill: A charcoal or gas grill gives the best flavor to the kabobs.
- Oven Broiler: If you can’t grill outside, the broiler works well too.
Skewers:
- Metal Skewers: These are reusable and hold heat well, making them great for grilling.
- Bamboo Skewers: If we use bamboo, we must soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Marinade Bowl:
A large glass or ceramic bowl is ideal for mixing the marinade. It allows us to coat the chicken evenly.
Meat Tenderizer:
A meat mallet helps make the chicken more tender, which is great for flavor.
Tongs:
Using tongs makes flipping and handling the skewers on the grill safer and easier.
Serving Platter:
Finally, we need a nice platter to serve our delicious kabobs. This makes the dish look appealing at the table.
By gathering these tools, we can create a wonderful Jujeh Kabab experience. Happy cooking!
Cooking Instructions
To make delicious Persian Jujeh Kabab, we need to prepare the chicken and marinade first.
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut skinless boneless chicken breasts into equal pieces, about 1 ½ to 2 inches.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the chicken with:
- Sliced onions
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Yogurt or Greek yogurt
- Lemon juice
- Extra virgin olive oil
- A pinch of saffron threads dissolved in a little boiling water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Marinate the Chicken: Toss the chicken pieces in the marinade until evenly coated. Let it sit for at least 2 hours, or overnight for better flavor.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Grill the Kababs: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the kababs hot, paired with rice, fresh herbs, or pita bread for a delightful meal. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips
When making Persian Jujeh Kabab, we recommend using olive oil to keep the chicken juicy. Mix it with a blend of salt, pepper, and turmeric for extra flavor.
Adding ground saffron to the marinade not only enhances the taste but also gives beautiful color. A splash of lemon or lime juice brings a fresh zest that balances the spices.
We suggest marinating the chicken for at least 1-3 hours, or even overnight. This allows the flavors to soak in deeply. If you’re short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes will still help.
Grill the kabobs over medium-high heat. Move them around to ensure even cooking and a nice char. This will seal in the juices, making for a tender bite.
Serve your Persian Jujeh Kabab with Persian rice, such as saffron rice or basmati rice. They complement the kababs perfectly.
Grilled vegetables and Shirazi salad add freshness and crunch to the meal.
Don’t forget the lavash bread or pita bread! They’re great for wrapping and soaking up all the delicious flavors.
Enjoy your meal with family and friends for a delightful experience.
Ingredients Needed for the Persian Jujeh Kabab Recipe
chicken thighs
saffron strands
salt
black pepper
onion
plain yogurt
lemon juice
Instructions For Preparing the Persian Jujeh Kabab Recipe
Preparing the Chicken & Marinade
Cut the chicken into 1.5-inch cubes. Peel and thinly slice or grate the onions. Grind the saffron into a powder using a mortar and pestle, then bloom it by mixing with 2 tablespoons of hot water and letting it sit for 5 minutes. In a bowl, combine yogurt, onions, saffron, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Coat the chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate overnight for the best flavor.
Cooking the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. If grilling, skewer the chicken on metal skewers or pre-soaked wooden skewers. Grill over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side until golden outside and fully cooked inside. Alternatively, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Serving
Serve with bread, grilled onions, tomatoes, sumac onions, and salad on the side. Enjoy your Persian Chicken Kabobs.
FAQs For the Persian Jujeh Kabab Recipe
Question: What is the Persian Jujeh Kabab Recipe?
A: The Persian Jujeh Kabab recipe is a traditional Persian grilled chicken dish, marinated in saffron, yogurt, lemon juice, and spices, then skewered and cooked over an open flame or grill.
Question: How long should I marinate the chicken for the Persian Jujeh Kabab Recipe?
A: For the best flavor, the Persian Jujeh Kabab recipe requires marinating the chicken for at least 4 hours, but overnight marination enhances tenderness and depth of flavor.
Question: Can I cook the Persian Jujeh Kabab Recipe without a grill?
A: Yes, the Persian Jujeh Kabab recipe can be cooked in an oven or on a stovetop grill pan, though grilling over charcoal gives it the most authentic smoky flavor.
Question: What is the best way to serve the Persian Jujeh Kabab Recipe?
A: The Persian Jujeh Kabab recipe is traditionally served with saffron rice, grilled tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a side of Mast-o-Khiar (yogurt and cucumber dip).
Question: How do I get the perfect char on the Persian Jujeh Kabab Recipe?
A: To achieve a beautiful char in the Persian Jujeh Kabab recipe, grill the skewers over medium-high heat, turning frequently, and baste with butter or marinade during cooking.
Persian Jujeh Kabab Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs cut into 1.5 inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon saffron strands use 1/2 teaspoon if you don't have too much
- 1.5 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 onion small thinly sliced or grated
- 1 cup plain yogurt full fat
- 1/4 cup lemon juice approx. juice of half a lemon
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken & Marinade
- Cut the chicken into 1.5-inch cubes. Peel and thinly slice or grate the onions. Grind the saffron into a powder using a mortar and pestle, then bloom it by mixing with 2 tablespoons of hot water and letting it sit for 5 minutes. In a bowl, combine yogurt, onions, saffron, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Coat the chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate overnight for the best flavor.
Cooking the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. If grilling, skewer the chicken on metal skewers or pre-soaked wooden skewers. Grill over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side until golden outside and fully cooked inside. Alternatively, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Serving
- Serve with bread, grilled onions, tomatoes, sumac onions, and salad on the side. Enjoy your Persian Chicken Kabobs.
1 comment
The saffron-marinated chicken grilled to juicy perfection with a slightly smoky flavor. The charred tomatoes complemented the skewers beautifully. Served with fluffy rice and a sprinkle of sumac, it was an instant hit. Everyone at the table raved about how tender and flavorful the chicken was!
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