Turkish-Style Souvlaki

Ingredients

While the Greek souvlaki typically uses pork or chicken, this Turkish adaptation incorporates lamb as the primary meat. The marinade also features Turkish spices and herbs, giving the dish a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, the Turkish-style souvlaki is traditionally served with yogurt sauce and pita bread, along with a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs. We alse have the original recipe for Souvlaki, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) lamb, cut into cubes 500g (1.1 lb) lamb, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 pita breads 4 pita breads
• 1 cup plain yogurt 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 cucumber, diced 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 tomato, diced 1 tomato, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 6g)
• Carbohydrates: 25g (Sugars: 4g)
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the lamb cubes to the marinade and toss until they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated lamb cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. 5.
   Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. 6.
   While the lamb is grilling, warm the pita breads on the grill for a minute on each side.
7. 7.
   In a small bowl, mix the plain yogurt with a pinch of salt.
8. 8.
   Remove the lamb skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
9. 9.
   To serve, spread a spoonful of yogurt sauce on each pita bread. Top with grilled lamb, diced cucumber, tomato, and sliced red onion. Garnish with fresh parsley.
10. 10.
    Fold the pita breads and serve the Turkish-style souvlaki immediately.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lamb — Choose lean cuts of lamb for a healthier option. Trim any excess fat before marinating.
• Yogurt — Opt for Greek yogurt for a thicker and creamier texture in the sauce.
• Pita bread — Warm the pita breads on the grill or in a toaster for a deliciously crispy texture.

Tips & Tricks

• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning on the grill.
• Marinate the lamb overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
• Serve the Turkish-style souvlaki with a side of traditional Turkish rice pilaf for a complete meal.
• Customize the toppings by adding sliced bell peppers or pickled chili peppers for an extra kick.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the lamb skewers on a stovetop grill pan or under the broiler.

Serving advice

Serve the Turkish-style souvlaki with a side of yogurt sauce, pita bread, and a fresh salad. It is best enjoyed immediately while the lamb is still warm and juicy.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled lamb skewers on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley. Serve the pita breads and toppings separately, allowing each person to assemble their own Turkish-style souvlaki.