Pasanda Kebab
Snacks • India
About Pasanda Kebab
Flattened mutton chops marinated and grilled — Lucknowi Eid snack.
How to Make Pasanda Kebab (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Pasanda Kebab is a classic North Indian delicacy, renowned for its melt-in-the-mouth texture and aromatic spices. Traditionally made with thinly sliced and marinated cuts of mutton or chicken, these kebabs are a staple at Mughlai feasts and are especially popular during grand celebrations like weddings and festivals. The word 'pasanda' comes from the Hindi-Urdu word 'pasand', meaning 'favorite', which is apt given its regal taste and historical association with royal kitchens of Awadh and Delhi. The kebabs are marinated in a rich blend of hung curd (dahi), nuts, and fragrant spices before being grilled or shallow-fried on a tawa. Despite their decadent taste, this health-conscious version uses lean meat and minimal oil, making it perfect for calorie-conscious food lovers. The subtle notes of cardamom (elaichi), ginger-garlic (adrak-lahsun), and roasted gram flour (besan) create a harmonious balance of flavors that is both satisfying and nutritious. Pasanda Kebab is a delightful addition to your snack repertoire, perfect for family gatherings, festive occasions, or a wholesome protein-rich meal.
Ingredients(for 2 medium kebabs (approx. 120g cooked))
- 250g Boneless chicken breast or mutton (thinly sliced (pasanda cuts))
- 3 tbsp Hung curd (dahi) (use thick curd)
- 1 tbsp Ginger-garlic paste (adrak-lahsun)
- 1 tbsp Roasted besan (gram flour)
- 8-10 Cashew nuts (kaju) (ground to a paste)
- 1 Green chilli (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tsp Garam masala
- 1/4 tsp Cardamom powder (elaichi)
- 1 tsp Lemon juice (nimbu ras)
- to taste Salt
- 1 tbsp Mustard oil (for marination and greasing tawa)
- 2 tbsp Fresh coriander (dhaniya) (finely chopped) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Clean and pat dry the boneless chicken or mutton. Slice into thin pasanda-style strips for quicker marination and even cooking.
3 minutes
For extra tenderness, lightly flatten the meat slices with a kitchen mallet.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine hung curd, ginger-garlic paste, ground cashew nuts, roasted besan, green chilli, garam masala, cardamom powder, lemon juice, mustard oil, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
5 minutes
Use a whisk to ensure the marinade is lump-free for even coating.
- 3
Add the meat slices to the marinade, coating them thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for richer flavor).
2 minutes
Longer marination enhances tenderness and flavor infusion.
- 4
Heat a heavy tawa or non-stick pan on medium flame. Lightly grease with a few drops of mustard oil.
2 minutes
Ensure the tawa is hot before placing the kebabs to prevent sticking.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Unlike deep-fried snacks, this Pasanda Kebab uses lean cuts of meat, hung curd, and a nut-based marinade, making it lower in calories and rich in essential nutrients. Grilling or shallow-frying on a tawa keeps the fat content in check while preserving the natural flavors and nutrients. The dish is balanced, filling, and perfect for a healthy Indian snack or meal.
Pasanda Kebab is a high-protein, low-carbohydrate dish, ideal for those focusing on muscle building or weight management. Chicken and mutton are excellent sources of lean protein, B vitamins, and minerals like iron and zinc. Using hung curd provides calcium and probiotics, while besan adds dietary fiber. The inclusion of nuts like cashew provides healthy fats, magnesium, and antioxidants. This kebab is grilled with minimal oil, reducing unnecessary saturated fat.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Marinate the meat overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Use hung curd to avoid excess moisture in the marinade.
- 💡Tip 3: For smokey flavor, grill the kebabs over charcoal or use the dhungar (smoke) method.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on a tawa or in a preheated oven for best texture. Avoid microwaving to retain moisture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 265.0 kcal |
| Protein | 24.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5.0 g |
| Total Fat | 16.0 g |
| Fiber | 1.0 g |
