Cumin-Chilli Lamb Kebabs with Garlic Yoghurt

Ingredients for Cumin-Chilli Lamb Kebabs with Garlic Yoghurt

• 1 garlic clove, grated

• 1/2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 240ml plain Greek yoghurt

• Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

• 2 tablespoons cumin seeds

• 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns or 1 teaspoon black peppercorns

• 2 teaspoons caraway seeds

• 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• Vegetable oil (for grill)

• 575g boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces

• Kosher salt, freshly cracked pepper

• Finely grated lemon zest (for serving)

• A spice mill or a mortar and pestle

• 8 (8–12-inch-long) metal skewers

Stir garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice into yoghurt in a small bowl to combine; season with salt and pepper.

Coarsely grind cumin seeds, peppercorns, caraway seeds, red pepper flakes, and sugar in spice mill or with mortar and pestle until only a few whole spices remain.

Prepare a grill for medium-high, indirect heat (for a charcoal grill, bank coals on one side of grill; for a gas grill, leave one or two burners off). Oil grates. Thread lamb onto 6–8 skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece of meat. Season with salt, then sprinkle generously with spice blend, pressing it onto the meat with your hands to help it adhere if needed.

Grill lamb over direct heat, turning every minute or so, until browned and beginning to char in spots, about 4 minutes. Move to cooler side of grill and continue to grill until lamb is cooked to desired doneness, about 4 minutes longer for medium-rare.

Top garlic yoghurt with cracked black pepper and a little lemon zest. Serve alongside lamb.

Yoghurt can be made 3 days ahead. Cover and chill. Spice blend can be made 1 month ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.