Hey fellow food lovers! Ready to embark on a culinary journey to Turkey, without even leaving your kitchen? This weekend, we’re tackling a classic: Turkish kebab. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think! This recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun weekend cookout. Let’s get started!

This recipe makes enough for 4-6 hungry people, so feel free to adjust based on your crowd.

What you’ll need:

• 1.5 lbs of lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes (you can also use beef or chicken)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning)
• Pita bread, salad, and tzatziki (recipe below) for serving

Let’s get cooking!

1. In a large bowl, combine the lamb, onion, garlic, paprika, cumin, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything really well, making sure the lamb is evenly coated in the spices. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or even overnight for maximum flavor.
2. Once the lamb is marinated, thread the cubes onto the soaked skewers. Leave a little space between each piece so they cook evenly.
3. Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Grill the kebabs for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the lamb is cooked through and slightly charred. If you’re using a broiler, keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
4. While the kebabs are cooking, prepare your tzatziki (recipe below).
5. Serve the kebabs hot off the grill with pita bread, a fresh salad, and a generous dollop of tzatziki. Enjoy!

Homemade Tzatziki (because store-bought just doesn’t compare!)

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

There you have it! A delicious and relatively easy Turkish kebab recipe that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Remember, cooking should be fun, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and marinades and let us know how yours turned out in the comments below, Happy cooking!