Adana vs koobideh — what’s the difference? Both are minced-meat kebabs, grilled on wide flat skewers. However, they come from different kitchens. Adana is a spicy Turkish kebab of minced lamb. Koobideh is a milder Persian kebab, flavoured with onion. In this guide, we explain the difference simply, so you can pick your favourite.
Adana vs koobideh: the quick answer
In short, it comes down to origin and spice. Adana is Turkish and brings a chilli kick. Koobideh is Persian and leans on grated onion. Meanwhile, both are pressed onto flat skewers and grilled over charcoal. So they look similar but taste quite different.
What is adana kebab?
Adana is a spicy minced-lamb kebab from Turkey. Cooks hand-mince the lamb and mix it with red pepper flakes. Then they press it onto a wide skewer and grill it over charcoal. So it is smoky, juicy and gently fiery.
What is koobideh kebab?
Koobideh is a classic Persian minced kebab. Cooks blend minced lamb or beef with grated onion. Then they press it onto a flat skewer and grill it. Finally, it is served with saffron rice. So it is mild, juicy and fragrant.
Adana vs koobideh: how they’re made
The seasoning sets them apart. Adana is spiced with red pepper for a chilli warmth. Koobideh relies on grated onion for moisture and flavour. Meanwhile, both use minced meat pressed onto wide skewers. So the base is similar, but the flavour leads elsewhere.
Adana vs koobideh: taste and texture
The experience is quite different. Adana is smoky, juicy and spicy. Koobideh is tender, mild and onion-sweet. Meanwhile, both are grilled over charcoal for a smoky edge. So one brings heat, the other brings gentle comfort.
Which should you choose?
It depends on your taste. For a spicy, smoky kebab, pick adana. For a milder, fragrant one, choose koobideh. Better yet, try both and compare. So you can decide your own favourite.
Where to try both in Kuala Lumpur
Feeling hungry? Then taste both at Lalezar, a halal Turkish, Mediterranean and Persian restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. Enjoy them fresh from the charcoal grill with rice and salad. So explore the full Lalezar menu, or find your nearest branch. We welcome you across three locations: Ampang, USJ Heights and Centrepoint Bandar Utama.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between adana and koobideh?
Adana is a spicy Turkish minced-lamb kebab, while koobideh is a milder Persian kebab flavoured with grated onion.
Which one is spicier?
Adana. It is seasoned with red pepper flakes, while koobideh is mild and onion-sweet.
Can you try both at Lalezar?
Yes. We serve both, so you can taste them side by side and pick your favourite.