Persian cuisine is known for its rich stews, fragrant rice, and bold spices—but if there’s one category that truly captures hearts (and taste buds), it’s the kabob. Among them, Koobideh stands out as the undisputed star. If you’ve ever tried this juicy, flavorful ground meat skewer, you know exactly why it’s so popular.
At Shamshiri Persian Grill in Glendale, CA, Koobideh is one of our most beloved dishes, served daily with fluffy Basmati rice, grilled tomatoes, and roasted vegetables. But what makes Koobideh so special — and why do people keep coming back for more?
Let’s dive into the world of Persian kebabs and discover what sets Koobideh (and its delicious grilled relatives) apart.
What Is Koobideh?
Koobideh is a Persian ground meat kabob, typically made from either beef, lamb, or chicken, blended with grated onion, salt, pepper, and a touch of turmeric. The mixture is formed onto long flat skewers and grilled over an open flame until the outside is lightly charred and the inside stays incredibly juicy.
The name “Koobideh” comes from the Persian word koobidan, meaning “to pound” — a nod to the traditional method of preparing the meat by hand until smooth and well-mixed. The result is tender, flavorful, and melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
Why Is Koobideh So Addictive?
1. Simplicity + Technique
Koobideh may use simple ingredients, but it requires mastery to perfect. At Shamshiri, our chefs have years of experience forming the skewers just right so they hold together over the fire and develop that signature charred exterior.
2. Flavorful and Tender
The mix of ground meat with finely grated onion creates a juicy texture that sets it apart from other grilled meats. Add a few Persian spices — not overpowering, just enough to enhance the meat — and you’ve got something irresistible.
3. That Smoky Char
Open-flame grilling gives Koobideh a deep, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the lightness of saffron rice and the acidity of grilled tomato. It’s all about balance — and Koobideh nails it.
Koobideh vs Other Persian Kabobs
Persian cuisine offers a wide variety of grilled skewers, and while Koobideh is a fan favorite, it’s just one part of a larger story.
🥩 Shish Kabob
Made with tender marinated chunks of Filet Mignon, this kabob is juicy, hearty, and deeply satisfying for steak lovers.
🍗 Chicken Koobideh
A lighter alternative, our ground chicken Koobideh is just as juicy and flavorful, thanks to careful seasoning and broiling.
🍢 Barg
Sliced tenderloin, marinated and skewered, then grilled to a beautiful finish — Barg is a more delicate, steak-like option for those craving elegance on the grill.
🐑 Shishlick & Bareh Kabob
For lamb lovers, our Shishlick (lamb chops) and Bareh Kabob (boneless lamb ribeye) offer rich flavor and succulent texture — marinated to perfection and grilled just right.
How to Enjoy It Like a Local
At Shamshiri Persian Grill, we serve all kabob entrees with:
- Grilled vegetables & broiled tomato
- Special Basmati rice (ask about zereshk polo, sabzi polo, or bagali polo upgrades!)
- Fresh salads or traditional appetizers like Must O’Khiar (yogurt & cucumber)
Want to go all-in? Pair your kabob with a side of Tahdig (crispy rice) and a glass of Doogh — a refreshing Persian yogurt drink with mint.
Visit Shamshiri for the Best Koobideh in Glendale
If you’re on the hunt for the best Persian kabobs in Glendale, Shamshiri Persian Grill is the place to be. From our signature Koobideh to our expertly grilled lamb and chicken kabobs, every skewer is a tribute to tradition, flavor, and fire.
Stop by for lunch or dinner — or order online for takeout. One bite of Koobideh, and you’ll understand why our guests keep coming back.
Your new favorite kabob is waiting.
