Turkish Lamb Shish Kebabs

Turkish Lamb Shish Kebabs

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Turkish cuisine with these succulent lamb shish kebabs. Marinated in a zesty blend of spices and grilled to perfection, each tender bite bursts with aromatic goodness. Pair them with grilled vegetables for a colorful presentation, and don't forget the refreshing tzatziki sauce – a staple in Turkish dining that brings the ensemble together. Historically, kebabs have been a beloved dish throughout the Middle East, symbolizing warmth, hospitality, and the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Wooden skewers (8-10, soaked in water for 30 minutes)
  • Cherry tomatoes (1 cup)
  • Bell peppers (2, cut into chunks (any color))
  • Red onion (1, cut into wedges)
  • Salt (1 teaspoon)
  • Pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Paprika (1 teaspoon)
  • Ground coriander (1 teaspoon)
  • Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
  • Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
  • Lemon juice (2 tablespoons)
  • Olive oil (1/4 cup)
  • Lamb leg or shoulder (1.5 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • Tzatziki sauce (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
  2. Add the lamb cubes to the marinade and toss well to ensure each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Once marinated, thread the lamb cubes onto the wooden skewers, alternating with chunks of red onion, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes for a colorful presentation.
  5. Grill the kebabs for approximately 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb reaches your desired doneness and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
  6. Remove the kebabs from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain their juices.
  7. Serve the Turkish lamb shish kebabs with a side of rice, a fresh salad, and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time) • Cook Time: 12 minutes • Calories: 450 • Fat: 25g • Carbs: 10g • Protein: 40g • Sodium: 600mg • Sugar: 5g