Cybele Kebabs
Cybele Kebabs, named after the ancient Phrygian mother of gods, Cybele, are a hearty and aromatic delight featuring a blend of traditional spices and flavors inherent to Middle Eastern cuisine. Originating from the rich cultural tapestry of Anatolia, these kebabs showcase the fusion of diverse culinary traditions that were historically spread along ancient trade routes. The Cybele Kebabs not only represent a flavorful dish but carry the essence of communal gatherings and shared meals, blossoms of cultural exchange.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 500 grams
- Ground Lamb: 500 grams
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Parsley: 1/2 cup, finely chopped
- Cilantro: 1/2 cup, finely chopped
- Mint: 1/4 cup, finely chopped
- Paprika: 2 teaspoons
- Cumin: 2 teaspoons
- Coriander: 1 teaspoon
- Cayenne Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 2 teaspoons
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Lemon: Juice of 1
- Skewers: As needed
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Meat Mixture
Combine the ground beef and ground lamb in a large mixing bowl. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the meat mixture. Incorporate the chopped parsley, cilantro, and mint into the bowl, ensuring a well-integrated mix.
Step 2: Spicing It Up
Sprinkle the paprika, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper over the meat mixture. Add the salt and black pepper for seasoning. Use your hands to mix everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Forming the Kebabs
Shape the mixture into elongated kebabs, each around 4 inches in length. Optionally, you can form them directly onto skewers, ensuring they are tightly packed to avoid falling apart.
Step 4: Marination
Coat the kebabs with olive oil and drizzle with the juice of a fresh lemon. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes in a refrigerator for the flavors to mature.
Cooking Process
Grilling the Kebabs
Preheat your grill on medium-high heat. Place the marinated skewers directly onto the grill grate. Cook each side for approximately 4-5 minutes or until the internal temperature achieves a perfect level of doneness. For perfect precision, use a cooking timer to avoid overcooking.
Alternative: Oven Cooking
If grilling is unavailable, preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Arrange the kebabs on a baking sheet and bake for around 15 minutes, turning once halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Cybele Kebabs pair excellently with a side of warm pita bread, a refreshing cucumber yogurt dip, and a vibrant tabbouleh salad to complement the aromatic flavors. For a full meal experience, enjoy with pilaf rice and a side of grilled vegetables.
Enhance Your Kebab Experience
For an elevated dining affair, consider serving the kebabs with a drizzle of tahini sauce or alongside hummus to add a creamy texture. Enjoy as part of a mezze platter to appreciate the kebabs in their full cultural spectrum.