My Husband’s Homemade Kebabs by Gemma K
There’s something special about homemade kebabs—the smoky aroma, the juicy texture, and the satisfaction of crafting them from scratch. My husband’s recipe is a family favorite, packed with rich flavors and a deliciously charred finish. Whether you serve them with warm pita, a fresh salad, or a tangy yogurt dip, these kebabs are sure to impress!
Ingredients 🥩🌿
500g ground beef or lamb (or a mix of both)
1 small onion, finely grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional, for a deeper flavor)
1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tbsp chopped mint (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions 🍢🔥
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, and all the spices. Add the chopped herbs and olive oil, then mix everything together until well combined. For the best texture, knead the mixture for about 5 minutes to help the meat bind properly.
2. Shape the Kebabs
Wet your hands with a little water to prevent sticking, then take a handful of the mixture and shape it into long sausage-like kebabs. If you have skewers, mold the meat around them. If not, you can shape them by hand and place them directly on a baking tray.
3. Chill the Kebabs
Place the shaped kebabs in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during cooking.
4. Cook the Kebabs
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the kebabs on a greased baking tray and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are browned and cooked through.
Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the kebabs for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally.
Pan-Fry Method: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the kebabs for 8–10 minutes, turning to brown all sides.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
Serve the kebabs hot with warm pita bread, a side of rice, fresh salad, and a creamy yogurt dip. Garnish with extra herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor! 🍋🌿
Tips for the Best Kebabs
✅ Use chilled meat for better texture.
✅ Knead the mixture well to help bind it together.
✅ Let the shaped kebabs rest in the fridge before cooking.
✅ For extra smoky flavor, grill them over charcoal.
Did You Ever Try This Recipe? Let me know how it turned out! 😊🔥