Chapli is a Pashtun kebab that is made from ground meat mixed with an array of spices that is first rolled into a ball and then flattened before being grilled or fried until crispy. They are absolutely fantastic and a fun way to enjoy your grill this summer. I've been known to replace standard burgers with them, but my favorite way to have them is alongside an assortment of grilled vegetables, pita, hummus, yogurt sauce, and more.
This is far from a traditional recipe. Most involve a mix of spices and minced vegetable, but this version makes things a bit easier by leaning on the spice cabinet and letting the mix of flavors give you an out of this world meal without spending hours chopping veggies in the kitchen. I add butter to the mix because the ground meat I use is very lean. If yours isn't, you can reduce or skip the added fat. You want enough to make sure you get that crispy texture as you grill them.
I've already discussed my favorite way to serve these. All that remains is a tall glass of iced tea or lemonade and the amusement that comes with realizing the dog is also a fan of chapli! Enjoy.
Grilled Beef Chapli Patty
- ½ tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
- ½ teaspoon gram masala powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 cup potato flakes
- 2 tablespoon ginger garlic paste
- 2 tablespoon chopped green chilli
- 2 tablespoon butter
In a large bowl, combine the spices, ground meat, potato flakes, ginger garlic paste, green chillies, and butter; mix well. Allow to rest in the refrigerator for 1-6 hours.
Roll out balls of the kabab and flatten them with your hands.
Grill the patties in a hot cast iron plate heated over a medium-high heat grill on both sides until fully cooked and crisp on both sides. Serve hot with an assortment of grilled vegetables and hummus, if desired.
- Yields: 4 servings
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes plus chilling time