Balochi Sajji
A traditional Balochi dish featuring a whole lamb or chicken marinated and slow-roasted on a skewer over an open flame or in a tandoor. It's known for its smoky flavor and tender, juicy meat.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 whole Whole lamb or large chicken(about 8-10 kg for lamb, 1.5-2 kg for chicken)
- to taste Salt
- 2 tbsp Black pepper(coarsely ground)
- 1 tbsp Cumin seeds(roasted and ground)
- 1 tbsp Red chili powder(adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp Garlic paste
- 2 tbsp Ginger paste
- 1/4 cup Lemon juice
- 1/2 cup Ghee or oil(for basting)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the lamb or chicken. For lamb, make deep incisions all over the meat. For chicken, spatchcock it.
💡 Tip: Ensures even cooking and marinade penetration. - 2
In a bowl, mix salt, black pepper, roasted cumin, red chili powder, garlic paste, ginger paste, and lemon juice to form a thick marinade.
💡 Tip: Taste the marinade to ensure it's well-seasoned. - 3
Rub the marinade thoroughly into the meat, ensuring it gets into all the incisions.
- 4
Marinate for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, in the refrigerator.
- 5
Skewer the marinated meat securely. For lamb, use a large, sturdy skewer. For chicken, use a rotisserie spit or skewer.
💡 Tip: Ensure the meat is balanced on the skewer for even rotation. - 6
Cook over an open flame (charcoal grill or fire pit) or in a tandoor, rotating continuously. Baste with ghee or oil every 30-45 minutes.
💡 Tip: Maintain a consistent medium heat. The goal is slow roasting. - 7
The sajji is ready when the meat is deeply browned, tender, and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F) for chicken or 63°C (145°F) for lamb.
💡 Tip: A meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check for doneness. - 8
Rest the sajji for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Authenticity lies in the slow roasting over open fire, imparting a unique smoky flavor.
- ✓Don't rush the cooking process; low and slow is key to tender meat.
- ✓Serve with traditional accompaniments like roti, naan, or a simple salad.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Stuffing the cavity of the chicken with herbs and spices before roasting.
- Using a mix of spices like coriander, turmeric, and garam masala in the marinade.