A Bulgarian culinary masterpiece, this dish features delicately spiced minced meat shish kebabs served with aromatic saffron rice and a vibrant tomato-onion salad. It is a true gastronomic journey through Bulgarian flavors and textures.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours
Ingredients (Serves Four People)
For the Minced Meat Shish-Kebab
- 500 grams of minced lamb
- 500 grams of minced beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Aromatic Rice
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon saffron threads
- Salt to taste
For the Tomato-Onion Salad
- 4 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon is approximately 15 ml, and a teaspoon is approximately 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Minced Meat Shish-Kebab
Combine the minced lamb, beef, garlic, onion, cumin powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Mold the mixture into elongated shapes around flat skewers, pressing the meat firmly to ensure it holds its shape during grilling. Preheat the grill to 200°C (392°F), then cook the kebabs for about 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
Step 2: Prepare the Aromatic Rice
Bring the vegetable broth, saffron threads, and a pinch of salt to a gentle boil in a saucepan. Add the Basmati rice, reduce the heat to 180°C (356°F), and cover the pot. Let the rice cook for about 20 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato-Onion Salad
Combine the diced tomatoes, thinly sliced onion, and chopped parsley in a medium bowl. Drizzle olive oil over the salad, season with salt and pepper, and toss well to combine.
Step 4: Final Plating
Spoon a generous serving of aromatic saffron rice onto each plate. Place the grilled minced meat shish-kebab atop the rice, and finish by adding a scoop of the fresh tomato-onion salad on the side.
Tips and Tricks
- Finely Chopped: The finer you chop the onions and garlic for the meat mixture, the smoother the texture of the kebabs.
- Timing the Rice: Allow the rice to cook slowly, giving it time to absorb the saffron’s flavor fully.
- Add a Kick: For those who love spice, add green or red chili peppers to the kebab mixture or salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Traditional Bread: Serve with a warm pita or flatbread to scoop up the rice and salad.
- Herbed Yogurt Sauce: A side of herbed yogurt or tzatziki would add a creamy, tangy contrast to the smoky kebabs.
- Grilled Vegetables: For a more substantial meal, serve alongside grilled zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers.
Wine Pairing
These kebabs pair wonderfully with a light-bodied Bulgarian red wine like Pamid or Mavrud. The wine’s fruity and earthy notes complement the flavors of the grilled meat and the vibrant salad.
Nutritional Information (Per serving)
Calories: 650 kcal
Protein: 40g
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 6g
Sodium: 750 mg
Storage Suggestions
- Refrigeration: For up to 3 days, store any leftover kebabs and rice in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Salad: The tomato-onion salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
About the Minced Meat Shish-Kebab
This minced meat shish-kebab recipe is a modern take on the traditional Bulgarian kebab. It combines lamb and beef with fragrant spices for a perfectly balanced flavor. Adding saffron to the rice adds a luxurious touch that elevates the dish beyond its rustic roots. The vibrant tomato-onion salad complements the rich, savory kebabs, making this meal a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
Cultural Context
The tradition of grilling kebabs over an open flame is deeply rooted in Bulgarian culinary history, with influences from neighboring Turkish cuisine. The combination of lamb and beef reflects the diversity of flavors in the region. Although not traditionally Bulgarian, adding saffron rice brings an exotic element to the dish, making it a perfect fusion of old and new. The fresh tomato-onion salad is a common accompaniment to grilled dishes, offering a bright, refreshing contrast to the smoky richness of the kebabs.
