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Delicious Turkish kebabs: A simple recipe to try at home

These high-protein Turkish kebabs are a delightful way to enjoy tender pieces of lamb infused with aromatic spices and fresh herbs. Marinated in a mixture of garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, and tomato paste, each bite is bursting with flavour, enhanced by the warmth of paprika, cayenne pepper, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for grilling, these kebabs make the most of summer ingredients like juicy cherry tomatoes, creating a vibrant and satisfying dish.

Ideal for a family gathering or a casual barbecue, these kebabs are not only easy to prepare but also a great source of protein, making them a wholesome choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Serve them warm with flatbread and a fresh salad to create a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

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Ingredients for Turkish kebabs

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced to a fine paste

  • 45 ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 15 ml tomato paste

  • 2.5 ml paprika

  • 1.25 ml cayenne pepper

  • 1.25 ml ground cinnamon

  • 1.25 ml ground cumin

  • 30 ml fresh thyme leaves

  • Sea salt and finely ground black pepper

  • 800 g boneless lamb leg, trimmed of most of the fat, cut into 2.5 cm chunks

  • 24 cherry tomatoes

  • Flatbread (for serving)

How to make Turkish kebabs

  1. Mix together the garlic, olive oil, tomato purée, spices, thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

  2. Add the minced beef to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours.

  3. Prepare a charcoal fire in an outdoor grill, or switch on the gas if using a gas grill. Alternatively, preheat the grill to high.

  4. Thread the marinated minced beef onto 7 long skewers and thread the tomatoes onto an eighth skewer.

  5. Grill over high heat or broil for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until the meat and tomatoes are cooked to your liking.

  6. Slip the meat and tomatoes off the skewers onto flatbreads and serve immediately.

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.

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Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 7 Aug 2025 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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