
Turkish Kebab
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Turkey with this delectable kebab recipe. Tender marinated lamb or beef is grilled to perfection, delivering a smoky aroma and juicy texture. Served on warm, toasted pita bread and topped with a refreshing yogurt sauce, fresh vegetables, and herbs, this dish is a feast for the senses. The origins of kebabs date back to the Ottoman Empire, where they were a staple in the kitchens of sultans and everyday people alike, showcasing a rich culinary tradition that has stood the test of time.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- Lamb or beef (1.5 pounds, cubed)
- Red onion (1, cut into wedges)
- Tomato (1, sliced)
- Pita bread (4 pieces)
- Fresh mint (1/4 cup, chopped)
- Cucumber (1, grated)
- Greek yogurt (1 cup)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Ground paprika (1 teaspoon)
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Olive oil (1/4 cup)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground paprika, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Add the cubed lamb or beef to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated meat onto skewers, alternating with wedges of red onion for added flavor. Optionally, you can add bell pepper pieces for a colorful touch.
- Grill the kebabs for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat reaches your desired doneness and develops a nice char.
- While the kebabs are grilling, prepare the yogurt sauce by combining the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, chopped mint, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well until fully combined.
- Toast the pita bread on the grill for a few seconds on each side until warm and slightly crispy.
- To serve, place the grilled kebabs on the warm pita bread, topped with fresh tomato slices, red onion wedges, and a generous dollop of yogurt sauce.
- Enjoy your delicious Turkish kebab, and consider serving it with a side of tabbouleh or a simple green salad for a complete meal!
Dietary Information
Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Marination Time: 1 hour (or overnight) • Cook Time: 12 minutes • Calories: 450 • Fat: 25g • Carbs: 30g • Protein: 30g • Sodium: 300mg • Sugar: 3g