Uzbek Kazan Kabob
Kazan Kabob is a classic Uzbek dish where lamb or beef is fried until crispy and tender, then layered with golden-fried potatoes and onions, all cooked together in a heavy pot (kazan) to meld the flavors. It's a hearty and deeply satisfying meal, often seasoned with aromatic spices like cumin and coriander.

๐ง Ingredients
- 1 kg Lamb ribs or beef chuck, bone-in preferred
- 1 kg Potatoes
- 2 large Onions
- 150 ml Vegetable oil or lamb fat
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds (Zira)
- 1 tsp Coriander seeds
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Wine vinegar (optional, for marinade)
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Cut the meat into large, uniform pieces (about 100-130g each). If using ribs, cut between the bones. Marinate the meat with salt, black pepper, cumin, coriander, and wine vinegar (if using). Let it sit for at least 1.5-4 hours in the refrigerator, depending on the freshness of the meat.
๐ก Tip: Marinating helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. - 2
Peel the potatoes and cut them into large chunks or leave small ones whole. Slice the onions into half-rings.
๐ก Tip: Keeping potatoes submerged in water until ready to fry prevents browning. - 3
Heat the oil or lamb fat in a heavy-bottomed pot (kazan) or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Fry the meat in batches until golden brown on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.
๐ก Tip: Don't overcrowd the pot, as this will lower the oil temperature and prevent proper browning. - 4
In the same pot, fry the potato chunks until golden brown and crispy. Remove the potatoes and set aside with the meat.
๐ก Tip: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding potatoes for a crispy exterior. - 5
Add the sliced onions to the pot and sautรฉ until caramelized and softened.
๐ก Tip: Caramelizing the onions adds a deep sweetness to the dish. - 6
Return the fried meat and potatoes to the pot with the onions. Add about 50-100ml of water if needed. Cover tightly, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the meat is very tender and cooked through.
๐ก Tip: Simmering allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become exceptionally tender. - 7
Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped dill. Kazan Kabob is traditionally served with fresh sliced onions, flatbread, and a tomato and cucumber salad.
๐ก Tip: This dish is rich and pairs well with refreshing sides.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โUsing meat on the bone adds more flavor to the dish.
- โAdjust the simmering time based on the cut and tenderness of the meat.
- โFor a richer flavor, use lamb fat instead of vegetable oil for frying.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some recipes omit potatoes and use a larger quantity of onions for a more intense onion flavor.
- Beef or even poultry can be used instead of lamb, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.