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Perfect Doner Kebab Recipe

Doner Kebab Recipe

Doner Kebab is a beloved Turkish street food that combines juicy, marinated meat with warm, soft flatbread and a variety of fresh toppings. This Perfect Doner Kebab Recipe brings the authentic flavors of Turkey right into your kitchen. The meat, typically lamb, beef, or a combination of both, is seasoned with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, then marinated to infuse deep flavors. Whether you cook it in the oven or grill it, the result is tender, smoky meat with a perfect charred edge. Paired with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and a refreshing garlic yogurt or tzatziki sauce, this Doner Kebab is easy to prepare and offers a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or a weekend treat, this recipe guarantees a flavorful experience that rivals any street food stall.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Middle Eastern, Turkish
Servings 4 People
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking tray or rotisserie skewer if available
  • knife for thin slicing
  • Foil if using oven method
  • Tongs or meat carving knife

Ingredients
  

For the Kebab:

  • 1 Ib lamb or beef (or a mix)
  • 1 large onion grated
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp coriander
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

For Serving:

  • Pita bread or flatbread
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Sliced onions
  • Tzatziki sauce or garlic yogurt sauce

Instructions
 

  • 1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine grated onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
    2. Marinate the Meat: Thinly slice the lamb or beef. Add the meat to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
    3. Cook the Doner Kebab:
    Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Stack the marinated meat on a skewer or shape into a loaf. Wrap tightly in foil and place on a baking tray. Roast for 25-30 minutes, then unwrap and slice the meat thinly.
    Grill or Pan-Fry Method: Heat a grill or a large pan over medium-high heat. Cook the slices of marinated meat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
    4. Assemble the Kebab: Warm the pita bread or flatbread. Layer it with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, onions, and the freshly sliced kebab meat. Drizzle with tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce.
    5. Serve: Wrap or fold the bread and serve the Doner Kebab immediately.

Notes

  • If you don’t have a rotisserie skewer, you can cook the meat using the oven or grill methods described.
  • For extra flavor, use a mix of lamb and beef to give the kebab a more authentic, juicy taste.
  • Serve with a side of fries or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
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