Authentic Turkish Şiş Kebap Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 kg of lamb meat, cut into 1 inch cubes
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 green bell pepper
  • 2 medium-sized onions
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 1 tablespoon of ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon of ground coriander
  • 1 tablespoon of paprika
  • 1 tablespoon of black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 4 tomatoes
  • Wooden or metal skewers

Steps and instructions

  1. Cut the lamb into 1 inch cubes, bell peppers and onions into squares and tomatoes into halves.
  2. Prepare the marinade by mixing the olive oil, crushed garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, black pepper and salt in a bowl.
  3. Add the cubed lamb into the marinade and mix well to ensure all pieces are coated. Cover the bowl and leave it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  4. Soak the wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent them from burning. If you're using metal skewers, you can skip this step.
  5. Thread the marinated lamb cubes onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of bell pepper, onion and tomato.
  6. Preheat your grill or barbecue to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb is cooked to your liking.
  7. Once the lamb is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

  • Grill or Barbecue - Needed to cook the skewers
  • Wooden or Metal Skewers - Used to thread the lamb and vegetables for grilling
  • Bowl - To mix the marinade ingredients and coat the lamb
  • Knife - For cutting the lamb, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes
  • Cutting Board - To provide a surface for cutting the ingredients
  • Measuring Spoons - Required for measuring the spices accurately
  • Brush - To baste the skewers with marinade during grilling

Recipe variations

  • Chicken or beef can be used instead of lamb.
  • For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with chunks of tofu or seitan.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to the marinade for a tangy flavor.
  • Include other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes on the skewers.
  • Create a spicy version by adding chili powder or hot sauce to the marinade.
  • For a smoky taste, marinate the meat with a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as oregano, thyme, or curry powder.
  • Try grilling the skewers on a charcoal barbecue for an enhanced smoky flavor.
  • Serve the kebabs with a side of tzatziki sauce or garlic yogurt for extra creaminess.
  • For a gluten-free option, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce in the marinade.

Recipe overview

Şiş Kebap is a popular and traditional dish from Turkey, loved for its rich and aromatic flavors. This dish is perfect for those who love to grill, as it involves grilling skewered marinated lamb interspersed with colorful vegetables. The lamb is marinated in a blend of spices including cumin, coriander, and paprika, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. The grilling process gives the kebap a delicious charred exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy on the inside. The recipe takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes to prepare, including marinating time, but the result is absolutely worth the wait. Enjoy the Şiş Kebap with some warm pita bread and a side salad for a complete, satisfying meal.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of lamb? Yes, you can use beef or chicken as alternatives to lamb in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  2. Do I have to marinate the lamb overnight? While marinating the lamb overnight enhances the flavor, you can marinate it for at least 4 hours if you're short on time.
  3. Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones? Yes, you can use either wooden or metal skewers for this recipe. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling.
  4. Can I cook Şiş Kebap in the oven? Yes, you can bake Şiş Kebap in the oven. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and cook the skewers for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meat is cooked to your liking.
  5. Can I add additional vegetables to the skewers? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant to the skewers for added variety.
  6. What side dishes go well with Şiş Kebap? Traditional accompaniments to Şiş Kebap include rice pilaf, tabbouleh, or a fresh salad. Some people also enjoy it with pita bread and tzatziki sauce.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Grill or barbecue - Needed to cook the kebabs.
  • Wooden or metal skewers - Used to thread the marinated lamb, vegetables, and tomatoes.
  • Bowl - Needed to prepare the marinade for the lamb.
  • Knife - Used to cut the lamb, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes.
  • Cutting board - Required for safely cutting the ingredients.
  • Brush - Used for basting the kebabs with marinade while grilling.
  • Tongs - Helpful for turning the kebabs on the grill.
  • Plates - Used to serve the cooked kebabs.
  • Napkins - Useful for guests to clean their hands while enjoying the kebabs.

Origin stories

Şiş Kebap boasts a rich history dating back to the time of the Ottoman Empire. Originating from the region that now comprises modern Turkey, it represented an ingenious solution for the nomadic tribes who roamed the harsh Anatolian landscapes. They discovered that skewering meat and cooking it over an open flame not only preserved the meat's nutritious value but also imparted an enticing smoky flavor. Over the centuries, this humble dish has travelled far and wide, becoming a beloved staple in Middle Eastern cuisine across the globe. Now, whether dining in a bustling Istanbul street bazaar or a contemporary Western eatery, one can still enjoy the delectable taste of Şiş Kebap, a testament to humanity's timeless love for simple, hearty food.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.