Succulent and Flavorful Homemade Kebabs: A Step-By-Step Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of lamb, cut into chunks
  • 1 large red onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of ground coriander
  • 1 tablespoon of ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon of paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 bunch of fresh mint, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the lamb, onion, garlic, coriander, cumin, paprika, cayenne, parsley, mint, salt and pepper.
  2. Add the olive oil to the mixture and mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
  3. Cover the bowl and let the mixture marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight.
  4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  5. Thread the marinated lamb onto the soaked skewers, leaving a small space between each piece of meat.
  6. Grill the kebabs for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
  7. Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

  • Grill - You will need a grill to cook the kebabs. A gas or charcoal grill will work for this recipe.
  • Wooden skewers - These are used to thread the marinated lamb and cook them on the grill. Make sure to soak the skewers in water for 30 minutes prior to use to prevent them from burning.
  • Large bowl - A large bowl is needed to mix the lamb and the marinade ingredients together.
  • Knife - You will need a knife to cut the lamb into chunks and finely chop the onion, garlic, parsley, and mint.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board is necessary for chopping the ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons - You will need measuring spoons to accurately measure the ground coriander, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and olive oil.
  • Grill tongs - Grill tongs are used to flip and remove the kebabs from the grill.
  • Basting brush - A basting brush can be used to brush some olive oil on the grill grates before cooking the kebabs, if needed.

Recipe variations

  • Chicken or beef can be substituted for lamb
  • Vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes can be added to the skewers
  • Add a tablespoon of lemon juice or yogurt to the marinade for a tangy flavor
  • For a spicy twist, add chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as oregano, thyme, or smoked paprika
  • Try grilling the kebabs on a charcoal or wood-fired grill for a smoky flavor
  • For a vegetarian option, substitute tofu or paneer for the meat and marinate in a flavorful sauce
  • Serve the kebabs with a side of tzatziki sauce or a spicy peanut dipping sauce
  • Instead of grilling, the kebabs can be cooked in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 20 minutes

Recipe overview

Get ready to savor the flavors of the Middle East with this delicious lamb kebabs recipe. These kebabs are packed with herbs and spices that will transport your taste buds to faraway lands. The recipe allows the lamb to marinate in a blend of fragrant spices, fresh parsley, and mint, which infuses it with incredible depth of flavor. After marinating, the lamb is threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection. The result is a tender and juicy kebab that is bursting with flavor. Whether you're looking for a new addition to your BBQ repertoire or want to travel the world from your kitchen, these lamb kebabs won't disappoint.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different meat for this recipe?
    Yes, you can substitute lamb with beef, chicken, or even tofu if you prefer.
  2. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
    While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can use dried herbs as a substitute. Use about 1/3 of the amount called for in the recipe.
  3. Can I cook these kebabs in the oven instead of on a grill?
    Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the kebabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the meat is cooked through.
  4. Can I freeze the marinated kebabs?
    Yes, you can freeze the marinated kebabs for later use. Place the skewers in an airtight container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before grilling.
  5. Can I make these kebabs ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the kebabs ahead of time by marinating the meat and threading them onto the skewers. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Grill - A grill is essential for cooking the kebabs to perfection.
  • Wooden skewers - These are needed to thread the marinated lamb chunks and grill them.
  • Large mixing bowl - Used for combining the lamb and other ingredients for marination.
  • Measuring spoons - To ensure accurate measurement of spices and oil.
  • Knife - To chop the red onion, garlic, parsley, and mint.
  • Cutting board - To chop the vegetables and herbs.
  • Grill tongs - To turn the kebabs while grilling.
  • Platter - To serve the cooked kebabs.

Origin stories

Kebabs trace their origins back to the Middle East, with historical evidence pointing to the 17th century Ottoman Empire. The word 'kebab' itself means 'to roast' in Arabic. However, the method of grilling meat on skewers was prevalent even in prehistoric times. The modern day version of the dish that we cherish so much was popularized by Turkish traders who would skewer chunks of marinated meat and grill them over an open fire during their travels. In fact, the renowned poet Rumi, in his classic works, even spoke of the virtues of the kebab - a testament to its standing in the culinary world. It's fascinating how a simple method of cooking meat has evolved into a global phenomenon, with diverse variations across different cultures, each adding their own unique spin to this beloved dish.

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.