Recipe: Turkish Grilled Lamb Kebabs

Introduction

Grilled lamb kebabs are a popular dish in Turkish cuisine. The combination of tender, marinated lamb with fragrant spices and smoky flavors makes it a favorite among meat lovers. This recipe will guide you through the process of making delicious Turkish grilled lamb kebabs right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) lamb, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh lemon wedges, for serving

Marinating the Lamb

To ensure maximum flavor and tenderness, marinating the lamb is essential. Follow these steps:

1. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, yogurt, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the lamb cubes to the marinade and mix well, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Preparing the Skewers

Grilled lamb kebabs are traditionally cooked on skewers. Here’s how to prepare them:

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
2. Thread the marinated lamb cubes onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece for even cooking.

Grilling the Kebabs

Now it’s time to cook the marinated lamb kebabs to perfection:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb is nicely charred and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
3. Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.

Serving and Enjoying

Your Turkish grilled lamb kebabs are now ready to be served:

1. Transfer the kebabs to a serving platter.
2. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the kebabs for added tanginess.
3. Serve hot with pita bread, rice pilaf, or a refreshing salad.

Conclusion

With this recipe, you can recreate the flavors of Turkish cuisine right at home. The combination of tender lamb, aromatic spices, and smoky grill marks will transport you to the streets of Istanbul. Enjoy these mouthwatering Turkish grilled lamb kebabs with family and friends for a memorable dining experience.