What Is a Chapli Burger? A Desi Twist on the Smash Burger

If you have seen a chapli burger on a menu and wondered what it is, here is the short version: it is what happens when one of Pakistan’s most loved street foods, the chapli kebab, meets the all American smash burger. The result is a burger with real personality, and at Burger Bhai in Herndon, Virginia it is one of the first things we tell newcomers to try.

First, what is a chapli kebab?

The chapli kebab comes from the northwest of Pakistan. It is a flat, spiced patty of minced meat mixed with tomato, onion, green chili, coriander, pomegranate seeds, and a blend of warm spices, then fried until the edges go crisp. It is bold, a little spicy, and deeply savory, nothing like a plain beef patty.

So what makes a chapli burger different?

A chapli burger takes that spiced, crisp edged patty and serves it the smash burger way: pressed thin on a hot griddle for a lacy, caramelized crust, then stacked on a soft bun with fresh toppings and sauce. You keep the deep desi flavor of the kebab and add the juicy, craveable texture of a real smash burger. It is the best of both worlds on one bun.

How does it taste?

Expect a savory, gently spiced bite with a crisp crust, brightened by fresh toppings and our house sauce. It is flavorful without being overwhelming, and it pairs perfectly with our masala loaded fries and a thick kulfi or falooda milkshake.

Where to try a chapli burger near you

Burger Bhai serves its chapli burger fresh, never frozen, and 100% halal at 150 Elden St in Herndon, Virginia. Dine in, pick up, or order delivery, and if you are out late, we are open until 3am on Friday and Saturday.

Try the Chapli burger. Order direct at burgerbhaidmv.com and save $5 on orders over $20 with code BHAI5.