Authentic Adana Kebab Recipe: A Spice-Infused Delight

Adana Kebab, a popular dish in Turkish cuisine, is known for its rich, spicy flavor and tender texture. When using ingredients like ground lamb and lamb tail fat, the result is an authentic taste that cannot be replicated. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through the process of making an authentic Adana kebab from scratch, using the provided ingredients and step-by-step instructions. Let’s explore this spicy and comforting dish!

Ingredients

For the Kebab:

1 lb 450g ground lamb (preferably from the shoulder) 4 oz 115g lamb tail fat, trimmed and finely chopped 1 medium onion, grated 2-3 cloves garlic, minced 1-2 green bell peppers, finely chopped 1-2 tablespoons red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon cumin Salt and black pepper, to taste Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

For Serving:

Pita bread or flatbread Grilled vegetables like tomatoes and peppers fresh salad with cucumber, tomato, onion, and parsley Lemon wedges

Instructions

Prepare the Meat Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb and chopped lamb tail fat. Use a mezzaluna or your hands to mix them until well combined. Add the grated onion, minced garlic, chopped bell peppers, red pepper flakes, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Knead the Mixture:

Knead the meat mixture for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes sticky and holds together well. This step is crucial for the kebabs to stay on the skewers.

Shape the Kebabs:

Divide the mixture into equal portions (about 4-6 depending on your skewer size). Wet your hands to prevent sticking and mold each portion around a skewer, flattening and shaping it to create a long oval shape.

Chill the Kebabs:

Place the skewers on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while grilling.

Grill the Kebabs:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You can also use a grill pan if you do not have an outdoor grill. Grill the kebabs for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are nicely charred and cooked through.

Serve:

Once cooked, serve the Adana kebabs hot with pita or flatbread, grilled vegetables, and a fresh salad. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips

Adjust Spices:

Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. Some people like it spicier while others prefer it milder.

Skewers:

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Accompaniments:

Traditional accompaniments include yogurt or a spicy sauce for dipping.

Conclusion

Enjoy your authentic Adana kebabs! This spice-infused dish is sure to bring a unique and delicious taste to your next meal. Experiment with different seasonings and variations of this recipe to find what suits your taste the best.