Sudanese Kebab Sunduk
Kebab Sunduk is a flavorful Sudanese dish featuring seasoned minced meat (often lamb or beef) mixed with onions, herbs, and spices, then shaped into small, dense kebabs and typically fried or baked until golden brown. It's a popular appetizer or side dish.

🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Ground lamb or beef
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped)
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper(or to taste)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 3-4 tbsp Vegetable oil(for frying)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped cilantro, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. - 2
Mix the ingredients thoroughly with your hands until well combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the kebabs tough.
- 3
Shape the mixture into small, elongated oval shapes, about 2-3 inches long and 1 inch thick. You should get about 16-20 kebabs.
💡 Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. - 4
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 5
Carefully place the kebabs in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
💡 Tip: Leave some space between kebabs for even cooking. - 6
Fry the kebabs for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are browned and cooked through.
💡 Tip: Adjust heat to prevent burning. - 7
Remove the cooked kebabs from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- 8
Serve hot as an appetizer or side dish, often with a side of tahini or a fresh salad.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a baked version, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- ✓You can add a pinch of allspice for an extra layer of flavor.
- ✓Ensure the meat is not too lean; a little fat helps with moisture and flavor.
🔄 Variations
- Add finely grated zucchini to the meat mixture for added moisture.
- Serve with a spicy tomato sauce or a cooling yogurt dip.