When it comes to Indian cuisine, few dishes are as celebrated as kebabs, particularly in the rich culinary landscape of Lucknow. Of these, Galouti Kebab is one that is loved for its melt-in-the-mouth texture and heavenly flavors. In this blog, we will be comparing the differences between Galouti Kebab and Shami Kebab, two kebabs which have captured the hearts of food lovers.

 

 

What is Galouti?

 

The word "Galouti" is translated as "melt-in-the-mouth" in Urdu, which very well explains the texture of these yummy kebabs. Originating from Lucknow, Galouti Kebabs were made for the aging Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, who had lost all his teeth but still yearned for the taste of meat. Therefore, these kebabs were prepared to be soft and savoring, so he could enjoy them without hassle.

 

 

The Origin of Galouti Kebabs

 

 

Galouti Kebabs have a deep history dating back to Lucknow's cooking heritage. Nawab's cooks tried out the different spice mixture and styles of cooking which would quench the Nawab's tongue while he himself had diet restrictions for. This gave way to the most delectable yet royal origin kebab.

 

 

Table: Key Differences Between Galouti Kebab and Shami Kebab

Feature	Galouti Kebab	Shami Kebab
Texture	Melt-in-mouth, soft	Firm and slightly chewy
Meat Used	Minced meat (usually lamb or beef)	Minced meat mixed with lentils
Spices	Richly spiced with saffron and cardamom	Mildly spiced with coriander and cumin
Preparation Method	Shallow fried or grilled	Shallow fried or pan-fried
Serving Style	Served with mint chutney and onions	Often served with chutney and salad
Origin	Lucknow, India	Hyderabad, India
Health Aspect	Higher fat content	Healthier due to lentils

 

How to Prepare Galouti Kebab at Home

 

Prepare Galouti Kebabs at home. In fact, it is even easier than you think it is. Here is an easy Galouti Kebab recipe for you:

 

- 500g minced lamb or beef

- 1 cup chopped onions

- 2-3 finely chopped green chilies

- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

- 1 tsp. garam masala powder

- 1 tsp. powder cardamom

- 2 tablespoons ghee or butter

- Salt to taste

- Chopped fresh coriander leaves

 

Instructions

 

1. Mix the minced meat along with onions, green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, spices, and salt in a bowl.

 

1. Use ghee or butter in order to enhance its flavour.

 

1. Let the mixture rest to marinate for at least 2 hours.

 

1. Shape into a small patty shape of the mixture.

 

1. Pan fry the patties shallow with a pan till both sides are golden brown.

 

1. Serve hot with mint chutney.

    

 

How to make Shami Kebab at home

 

 

For all those who wish to try their hand at making Shami Kebabs, here's a quick recipe:

 

Ingredients

 

- 500g minced meat(lamb or chicken)

- 1 cup soaked lentils(split chickpeas)

- 1 onion finely chopped

- Spices: cumin, coriander powder, red chili powder

- Fresh herbs: mint and coriander leaves

- Salt according to taste

 

Instructions

 

1. Boil the chopped meat with soaked lentils until tender.

2. Squeeze excess water and mash it smooth.

3. Add the minced onion, spices, and herbs to the mixture.

4. Patty it up and then shallow fry it till brown.

5. Serve it with chutney or salad.

    

    

Galouti Kebab vs. Shami Kebab: A Comparison of Taste

 

 

On close observation, the two will have a significant difference between the taste and the feel of the two:

 

• Galouti Kebabs are famous for their taste because of saffron and cardamom. Thereby, it offers richness in the flavor. These spices not only enhance the flavor but also impart a fragrant aroma that makes these kebabs irresistible. The texture of Galouti Kebabs is another hallmark of their appeal. They are designed to be incredibly tender, almost dissolving in your mouth with each bite. 

 

• Shami Kebabs have subtler flavors with earthiness from lentils and spices as coriander. Made from minced meat combined with lentils, these kebabs have a unique texture that is firmer than Galouti Kebabs. The use of lentils not only adds nutritional value but also contributes to their subtle flavor. 

 

The preparation method for Shami Kebabs involves boiling the meat and lentils together before grinding them into a paste. This process allows for the flavors to meld together while maintaining a firmer texture compared to Galouti Kebabs

 

Taste Comparison Summary

Feature	Galouti Kebab	Shami Kebab
Flavor Profile	Rich, aromatic with saffron and cardamom	Subtle earthiness with coriander and cumin
Texture	Soft, melt-in-mouth	Firm, slightly chewy
Spices Used	Saffron, cardamom	Coriander, cumin
Main Ingredients	Minced meat	Minced meat mixed with lentils
Cooking Method	Shallow fried or grilled	Boiled then ground; shallow fried

 

FAQ’s About Galouti Kebab

 

1. What is the difference between Galouti Kebab and Shami Kebab?

    

Their main differences lie in texture and ingredients, as well as their preparation methods. Galouti Kebabs are softer and richer due to higher fat content, whereas Shami Kebabs are firmer because of lentils.

 

1. Is Galouti Kebab healthy?

    

Though very tasty, Galouti Kebabs are higher in fats, due to the minced meat and ghee. It can be consumed with restraint if you are watching your diet.

 

1. What are the Lucknowi kebabs?

    

Traditional Lucknowi kebabs involve various types of kebabs, which include Tunday Kababi and Seekh Kebabs, which boast different flavors and techniques of cooking.

 

 

Final Say

 

Both Galouti Kebab and Shami Kebab have separate tastes and textures that they carry forward from their high cultural backgrounds. While Galouti Kebabs carry a melt-in-the mouth experience with luxury, a delightful chewiness is added by the Shami Kebabs, which many desire. It doesn't matter whether you like one or both the same; of course, they will satisfy you for genuine Indian food dishes.

 

For more delicious recipes and insights into kebab culture, check out our other blog on Galouti Kebab Recipes.

 

By understanding these differences and trying out these recipes at home, you can appreciate these classic dishes even more!

 

 

About Charcoal Eats

 

Savour the mouth watering flavours of our Chicken seekh roll recipe, which is made using only the best ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Your best place in Mumbai, Pune, and Delhi for amazing food experiences online is Charcoal Eats.

 

Order it now to experience the delicious taste of heaven with our Classic Biryani, renowned for its aromatic spices, layered rice, and perfectly cooked vegetables. Also enjoy scrumptious kebabs, sides & desserts today.