Narges Kebab (Afghan Egg Kebab)

  • Total Time - 75 minutes
  • Preparation - 25 minutes
  • Cooking / Baking - 50 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Country: Afghanistan
Sliced Narges Kebab in tomato sauce, revealing the yellow egg yolk.

Narges Kebab is often compared to a 'Scotch Egg', but instead of breadcrumbs, it relies on a juicy, seasoned meat mixture with Afghan spices. The kebab is typically served with Chalau rice or Naan bread.

Ingredients

For the Kebab (Meat Mixture)

  • 500 g Ground Beef or Lamb
  • 4 pcs Hard-boiled Eggs, peeled
  • 1 small Onion, finely grated or chopped
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Coriander, chopped
  • 0.5 tsp Turmeric
  • 0.5 tsp Cumin (ground)
  • to taste Salt and Black Pepper

For the Sauce (Qorma)

  • 1 large Onion, chopped
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
  • 3 cloves Garlic, crushed
  • 0.5 tsp Turmeric
  • 2 cups Hot Water or Broth
  • as needed Oil for frying and braising

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing Eggs and Meat

Hard boil 4 eggs (about 8-10 minutes), cool them in cold water, peel, and dry them.

In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, grated onion, coriander, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Knead thoroughly until the mixture becomes sticky.

Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal parts. Spread each part onto your palm and wrap it around one egg. The meat must completely cover the egg. Press firmly to form a tight ball.

Step 2: Searing the Kebab and Sauce

Heat oil in a large pot or pan. Sear the meat balls on all sides until golden brown. Set them aside.

In the same oil, sauté the chopped large onion (about 8-10 minutes) until it turns a deep golden-brown colour. Add the garlic and turmeric, heating for 1 minute.

Add the tomato paste, stir, and fry briefly.

Step 3: Braising

Pour hot water or broth over the mixture (about 2 cups), season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a boil.

Carefully place the seared meat balls back into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-50 minutes, until the meat is thoroughly cooked and the sauce is thick.

Step 4: Serving

Narges Kebab should be served in bowls with the sauce, ideally cut in half (carefully!) with a sharp knife to reveal the yellow 'narcissus' inside.

Serve with Chalau rice or Naan bread.