Bahraini-inspired Spiced Lamb Momo Yakitori

Ingredients

In this Bahraini adaptation of the Japanese yakitori, we substitute the traditional chicken with succulent lamb, which is a popular meat in Bahraini cuisine. The marinade is also modified to include Bahraini spices such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, giving the dish a distinct Middle Eastern flavor profile. Additionally, we incorporate date syrup, a common ingredient in Bahraini cooking, to add a touch of sweetness and enhance the overall taste. We alse have the original recipe for Momo yakitori, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground lamb 500g (1.1 lb) ground lamb
• 2 tablespoons date syrup 2 tablespoons date syrup
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8-10 skewers, soaked in water 8-10 skewers, soaked in water

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, date syrup, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Divide the lamb mixture into small portions and shape them into elongated meatballs.
3. 3.
   Thread the lamb meatballs onto the soaked skewers, pressing them gently to secure.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, mint, cilantro, and olive oil to make the yogurt dip. Set aside.
5. 5.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
6. 6.
   Place the lamb skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred.
7. 7.
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
8. 8.
   Serve the spiced lamb momo yakitori hot with the yogurt dip on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground lamb — Make sure to use lean ground lamb for a healthier option. If you prefer a stronger lamb flavor, you can use ground lamb with a slightly higher fat content.
• Date syrup — If you can't find date syrup, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup for a similar touch of sweetness.

Tips & Tricks

• Soaking the skewers in water before grilling helps prevent them from burning.
• For an extra burst of flavor, you can brush the lamb skewers with a mixture of date syrup and olive oil while grilling.
• Serve the momo yakitori with a side of warm Arabic bread or rice pilaf for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the spiced lamb momo yakitori as a main course alongside a fresh salad or as part of a mezze platter. Garnish with additional chopped mint and cilantro for a vibrant presentation.

Presentation advice

Arrange the skewers on a platter, placing them diagonally for an appealing visual effect. Drizzle some yogurt dip over the skewers and sprinkle with a pinch of ground cumin for an extra touch of elegance.