Juicy Lamb Kebab Recipe – Grilled Middle Eastern Flavor
Introduction Paragraph
Lamb kebabs are a staple in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, bringing together bold spices, tender meat, and smoky char from the grill. This recipe gives you juicy lamb bites marinated in garlic, cumin, paprika, and lemon, then grilled to flavorful perfection.
These kebabs are perfect for summer BBQs, family dinners, or festive gatherings. Serve them with pita, yogurt sauce, or a fresh salad and you’ve got a showstopping main course.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinate Time: 1 hour (or overnight)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: Serves 4
Ingredients List
- 1½ lbs lamb leg or shoulder, cut into 1½-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (plus more for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water 30 min)
Instructions
- Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and all spices. This mixture will deeply flavor the lamb and keep it juicy during grilling. - Marinate the Lamb
Add lamb cubes to the bowl and toss well to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (up to overnight). Marinating tenderizes and infuses rich flavor. - Skewer the Lamb
Thread the marinated lamb cubes onto skewers, leaving a little space between each for even cooking. This step helps the heat circulate evenly for a beautiful char. - Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking. A hot grill sears the outside quickly, locking in juices. - Grill the Kebabs
Grill kebabs for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred outside and juicy inside. Internal temp should reach about 145°F for medium. - Rest and Serve
Let kebabs rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges, pita, or tzatziki.
Suggested Add-ons or Toppings List
- Tzatziki sauce or garlic yogurt dip
- Sliced red onions and tomatoes
- Warm pita or flatbread
- Hummus or baba ghanoush on the side
- Crumbled feta cheese and olives
Health Benefits Section
- Lamb – High in protein, zinc, and vitamin B12
- Garlic – Supports immune health
- Olive Oil – A heart-healthy fat
- Spices – Anti-inflammatory and rich in antioxidants
- Grilled method – Lower fat cooking style than frying
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use ground lamb instead of chunks?
Yes, you can shape ground lamb into kofta kebabs. Just adjust the grilling time accordingly.
Q: What cut of lamb works best?
Lamb leg or shoulder is ideal—they’re flavorful and tender when marinated.
Q: Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake at 425°F for 18–20 minutes on a baking rack, flipping halfway.
Q: How long should I marinate the lamb?
At least 1 hour, but overnight gives the best flavor.
Q: Are these kebabs spicy?
Mild with optional cayenne heat—adjust the spice to your liking.
Nutritional Information Table (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 34 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Net Carbs | 1 g |
Approximate values depending on lamb cut and oil used.
Diet Tags or Labels
High-Protein • Low-Carb • Gluten-Free • Mediterranean • Keto-Friendly • BBQ
Conclusion
Juicy, tender, and bursting with spice, these lamb kebabs bring a taste of tradition with every bite. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or prepping a flavorful dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Save this for your next BBQ and enjoy the smoky goodness of perfectly grilled lamb!