Urfa Kebab Recipe

History and Background

The Urfa Kebab, hailing from the southeastern region of Turkey, particularly from the city of Şanlıurfa, is a traditional dish that carries a rich history and cultural significance. Known for its mild seasoning and distinct flavor, it forms an essential part of Turkish cuisine. Named after its city of origin, Urfa Kebab differentiates itself from its spicier counterpart, the Adana Kebab, by incorporating a more subtle spice blend that highlights the quality of the meat used.

The kebab’s origins date back centuries, deeply rooted in the nomadic lifestyle of early Turkic tribes, who found skewered meat cooked over open flames a convenient and delicious meal. Over time, this cooking method evolved, and specific variants began to emerge in different regions of Turkey, with the Urfa Kebab gaining prominence through its balance of flavors and aromatic use of ingredients.

Ingredients

• Ground Lamb - 2 pounds
• Sweet Paprika - 2 tablespoons
• Ground Cumin - 1 tablespoon
• Ground Black Pepper - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Onion - 1 large, grated
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Flatbreads - For serving
• Parsley - A bunch, chopped
• Tomato - 2, sliced
• Red Pepper - 1, sliced
• Lemon - For garnish

Preparation

The preparation of Urfa Kebab begins with selecting high-quality ground lamb, as the meat is the core component of the dish. The lamb needs to be fresh and preferably have a good amount of fat marbled through it, which is essential for keeping the kebabs juicy and flavorsome during grilling.

Start by taking the onion and grating it finely. Ensure the onion is grated to a pulp-like consistency, as the juices will impart a subtle sweetness and tenderizing effect to the meat. Squeeze out any excess juice from the grated onion to ensure the mixture isn’t too wet.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, grated onion, garlic minced, sweet paprika, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt. Using your hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. The mixing process is crucial as it ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

After mixing, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to infuse and the meat to firm up slightly, making it easier to shape onto skewers.

Shaping the Kebabs

Once the meat has marinated and rested, divide the mixture into equal portions. Take a portion of the meat and mold it onto a metal skewer. The thickness of the kebab should be consistent to ensure even cooking. Press and shape the meat firmly onto the skewer about 1 inch thick to prevent it from falling apart during grilling.

Grilling

Traditionally, Urfa Kebab is cooked over a charcoal grill, which imparts a unique smoky flavor. However, a regular barbecue grill or a grill pan can also suffice. Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. Brush the skewers lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they are evenly cooked on all sides. The kebabs are ready when they have a nice charred exterior and are cooked through, but still juicy inside.

If you're unsure about the cooking time, you can use a cooking timer to help manage your grilling process efficiently.

Serving Suggestions

Urfa Kebab is typically served with warm flatbreads. Arrange the kebabs onto a platter with the flatbreads, and garnish with fresh parsley, slices of tomato, red pepper, and wedges of lemon. The freshness of the garnishes complements the savory richness of the kebabs beautifully.

To truly enjoy your Urfa Kebab, consider pairing it with a refreshing cucumber yogurt dip or a side of tabbouleh salad. These sides add a nice contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience with their fresh and zesty notes.

Enjoying the Meal

With its roots steeped in tradition, enjoying Urfa Kebab is more than just a meal; it's an experience. Gather around with family and friends, sharing stories and laughter, as this dish is often served in a communal style, encouraging connection through its simplicity and deliciousness.

Pair your meal with a glass of cold Ayran, a traditional Turkish yogurt-based beverage, to counterbalance the warm spices of the kebab. As you savor each bite, appreciate the delicate dance of spices and the succulent texture of the lamb that makes Urfa Kebab a celebrated dish across Turkey and beyond.

Whether you enjoy it as a hearty dinner or a festive occasion, the authentic flavors of Urfa Kebab are sure to captivate your palate, bringing a taste of Turkish tradition into your home.