Lamm Kebab, or lamb kebabs, are a flavorful and versatile dish often enjoyed in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. They can be made with ground lamb or chunks of lamb, seasoned with various spices and herbs. Here's a simple and delicious recipe for making lamb kebabs:
Ingredients:
For the Lamb Kebabs:
-
For Ground Lamb Kebabs:
- 500g (1 lb) ground lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped or grated
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
-
For Lamb Cubes:
- 500g (1 lb) lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme (optional)
For Serving:
- Pita bread or flatbreads
- Hummus or tzatziki sauce
- Fresh vegetables such as cucumber, tomato, red onion
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ground Lamb Kebabs:
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground lamb with chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro (if using), cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, and olive oil.
- Shape Kebabs: Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Shape the mixture into long, thin patties or onto skewers if using metal or soaked wooden skewers. Flatten the patties slightly to ensure even cooking.
2. Prepare the Lamb Cubes Kebabs:
- Marinate Lamb: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, and oregano or thyme (if using). Add the lamb cubes and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Cook the Kebabs:
- Grill or Broil:
- For Ground Lamb Kebabs: Preheat your grill or broiler. Grill or broil the kebabs over medium-high heat for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and nicely browned.
- For Lamb Cubes: Preheat your grill or broiler. Thread the marinated lamb cubes onto skewers. Grill or broil the kebabs for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb is cooked to your desired level of doneness (medium-rare to medium is often preferred).
4. Serve:
- Assemble and Garnish: Serve the kebabs with pita bread or flatbreads, a side of hummus or tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomato, and red onion. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and lemon wedges.
Tips:
- Soaking Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Cooking Temperature: For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure lamb is cooked to your liking. Lamb should reach at least 63°C (145°F) for medium-rare.
- Variations: Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs to suit your taste preferences. You can also add bell peppers or onions to the skewers for extra flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Lamm Kebab with all the delicious accompaniments!
