Kebab

kebab

Turkish cuisine has gained immense popularity over the years, thanks to its rich and diverse flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Among the most prominent dishes is the famous Turkish kebab, which is known for its delicious taste and unique blend of spices. The Turkish kebab has gained a significant following both in Turkey and abroad, becoming a popular street food and restaurant favorite.

The kebab is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that is made of marinated and grilled meat. Turkish kebabs come in various forms, but the most popular is the shish kebab, which consists of succulent cubes of meat skewered and grilled to perfection. The dish is perfect for a family meal or a get-together with friends and is often served with vegetables, bread, and yogurt sauce, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.

The Turkish kebab is traditionally made with lamb or beef, but there are various other variations, including chicken or vegetable kebab, which have become increasingly popular. The recipe varies from region to region, with each area having its own unique blend of spices and marinades. The meat is marinated in a mixture of herbs, spices, and olive oil for several hours, allowing the meat to absorb the flavors.

One of the most important elements in the Turkish kebab is the spice blend. The blend usually consists of a mixture of cumin, salt, black pepper, and paprika, and sometimes other spices such as sumac, coriander, and garlic. These spices add a deep, rich flavor to the meat and give it that signature Turkish kebab taste.

Once the meat has been marinated, it is threaded onto skewers and grilled over charcoal or an open flame until it is cooked to perfection. The meat is typically served with a side of red onion, grilled vegetables, and flatbread. The dish is often topped with a dollop of yogurt sauce, which is made from thick yogurt, garlic, and fresh herbs such as dill or mint.

One of the great things about Turkish kebab is that it is incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to enjoy it. For example, some people enjoy their kebab wrapped in a warm pita bread, while others prefer it with rice, salad, or even in a hearty stew. The dish can also be customized to suit individual preferences by adding or removing ingredients from the marinade or using different cuts of meat.

In conclusion, Turkish kebab is a delicious and versatile dish that has become a beloved part of Turkish cuisine. Whether enjoyed at a popular street food vendor or in a high-end restaurant, the mouth-watering flavors and succulent meat make it a must-try dish for anyone looking to explore the unique and diverse cuisine of Turkey.

Ingredients:

500g minced lamb

1 onion, finely chopped

¼ cup breadcrumbs

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp finely chopped parsley

1 egg

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.

  2. In a large bowl, mix together the minced lamb, onion, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, egg, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

  3. Knead the mixture with your hands until everything is well combined and the mixture becomes sticky.

  4. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions and shape them into long skewers or patties.

  5. Place the skewers or patties on a baking tray lined with baking parchment.

  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the kebabs are cooked through and golden brown.

  7. Serve with rice and garnish it with a few fresh herbs such as parsley or coriander.

Enjoy your delicious Turkish kebabs!