Katakat
Finely chopped organ meats stir-fried on a hot griddle with spices — Lahore street food classic.
The Story
Katakat is a beloved dish in Pakistani cuisine, often associated with communal gatherings and street food culture. The name itself is derived from the sound made while chopping the ingredients on a hot griddle, symbolizing the vibrant and bustling nature of local markets.
Nutrition per Serving
450
Calories
30g
Protein
20g
Carbs
25g
Fat
5g
Fiber
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Heat the butter or ghee in a large, heavy-based pan over medium heat. Once melted and bubbling, add the finely chopped onions. Sauté them until they become translucent and start to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
- 2
Add the ginger-garlic paste to the pan and stir well, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears. This will create a fragrant base for your dish.
- 3
Incorporate the diced boneless beef and mutton liver into the pan. Cook them thoroughly, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes until the meat is browned and cooked through.
- 4
Sprinkle in the coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the spices and cook for another 2-3 minutes. The spices should release their aroma and create a colorful mixture.
- 5
Add the finely chopped green chilies and garam masala. Mix everything together, allowing the flavors to meld for about 2 minutes. The dish should now be vibrant and fragrant.
- 6
Stir in the fresh coriander and mint leaves, mixing them into the beef and liver mixture. This will add a refreshing flavor and color contrast to the dish.
- 7
Drizzle the lemon juice over the mixture, giving it a good stir to combine all the ingredients. The acidity will enhance the overall taste of the Katakat.
- 8
Let the mixture cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to deepen. You should see some moisture evaporating while the dish thickens.
- 9
Once done, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a pinch more salt or chili powder according to your preference.
- 10
Serve the Katakat hot, garnished with extra chopped coriander and mint leaves, alongside naan or paratha. Enjoy the rich flavors and textures that this dish has to offer!
- 11
Optionally, you can serve with sliced onions and lemon wedges on the side for added freshness.
Pro Tips
- •
Ensure the protein is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- •
Use a mix of fresh herbs like cilantro and mint for added flavor.
- •
Adjust the spice blend according to personal taste; adding a bit of chili can enhance heat.
- •
For a richer flavor, let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving.
Variations
- →
Substitute chicken with paneer for a vegetarian option.
- →
Add regional spices like garam masala for a North Indian twist.
- →
Swap tomatoes for bell peppers for a sweeter flavor profile.


