Grilled Herb and Spice Lamb Kebab with Mint Yogurt Sauce 🍢🌿

 New Recipe

Grilled Herb and Spice Lamb Kebab with Mint Yogurt Sauce 🍢🌿

Ingredients:

• For the Kebab Marinade:

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb (or beef/chicken for variation)
  • 1 small onion, finely grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground turmeric
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if using)

• For the Mint Yogurt Sauce:

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• For serving:

  • Warm flatbread or pita
  • Chopped salad (cucumber, tomato, red onion)
  • Fresh herbs (parsley, mint)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the kebab marinade:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, olive oil, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well until fully combined.
   • Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Form the kebabs:

   • Divide the meat mixture into 6-8 equal portions. Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then shape each portion into a long, cylindrical shape around the skewers.
   • Press the meat firmly to ensure it stays in place while cooking.

3. Grill the kebabs:

   • Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
   • Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the kebabs are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C for lamb).

4. Make the mint yogurt sauce:

   • In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, chopped mint, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

5. Serve and enjoy:

   • Serve the kebabs on a platter with warm flatbread or pita, a side of chopped salad, and a generous drizzle of mint yogurt sauce on top. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor.

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Optional Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Use ground chickpeas or lentils mixed with finely chopped vegetables (like zucchini, onion, and bell pepper) as the base for the kebabs.
• Spicy Kick: Add red chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chilies to the meat mixture for a spicy version.
• Different Meat: Substitute the lamb with beef, chicken, or even turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Smoky Flavor: Add a small amount of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade for extra depth.