Name: Lamb Kebab
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: Boneless leg of lamb, trimmed and cut into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes; 1 yellow onion; 3 garlic cloves; ½ cup fresh parsley; 1 lemon (zest and juice); 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp ground allspice; ½ tsp ground nutmeg; ½ tsp ground cardamom; Kosher salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Boneless leg of lamb, trimmed and cut into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes; 1 yellow onion; 3 garlic cloves; ½ cup fresh parsley; 1 lemon (zest and juice); 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp ground allspice; ½ tsp ground nutmeg; ½ tsp ground cardamom; Kosher salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Savory Flavors: The combination of spices and herbs enhances the natural taste of the lamb, providing a delightful culinary experience.
Tender and Juicy: Marinating the lamb ensures each bite is tender and moist.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair these kebabs with various sides like salads, flatbreads, or dips to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless leg of lamb
Yellow onion
Garlic cloves
Fresh parsley
Lemon
Olive oil
Spices: allspice, nutmeg, cardamom
Kosher salt and black pepper

Directions

Prepare the Lamb: Trim excess fat from the lamb and cut it into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a large bowl and season with kosher salt and black pepper.
Make the Marinade: In a food processor, combine the onion, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, and olive oil. Process until you achieve a thick, smooth marinade.
Marinate the Lamb: Pour the marinade over the lamb cubes, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated lamb pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece for even cooking.
Grill the Kebabs: Preheat the grill to high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook, turning every couple of minutes, until the lamb is browned on all sides and reaches your desired level of doneness, approximately 7 to 9 minutes for medium-rare.
Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your choice of sides.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes (excluding marinating time)
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: At least 2 hours

Variations

Spice Adjustments: Customize the spice blend to your liking by adding cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika for different flavor profiles.
Vegetable Additions: Include vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes on the skewers for added color and nutrition.
Alternative Marinades: Experiment with different marinades, such as those incorporating yogurt or Middle Eastern spice blends like baharat, to explore diverse tastes.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Place leftover lamb kebabs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To maintain tenderness, reheat the kebabs gently in a covered skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid overcooking to prevent drying out the meat.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the lamb?

For optimal flavor and tenderness, marinate the lamb for at least 2 hours. If time permits, marinating overnight enhances the depth of flavor.

Can I use a different cut of lamb?

Yes, while boneless leg of lamb is recommended for its balance of tenderness and flavor, cuts like lamb shoulder or tenderloin can also be used. Note that shoulder may require a longer marinating time due to its denser texture.

Is it necessary to use skewers?

Skewers facilitate even cooking and easy handling on the grill. If you prefer not to use them, you can grill the marinated lamb pieces directly on the grill grates or use a grill basket.

Can I cook the kebabs without a grill?

Absolutely. If a grill isn’t available, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the kebabs in the oven. Ensure they are cooked to your desired doneness by monitoring the internal temperature.

What are some recommended side dishes?

Lamb kebabs pair well with sides like tzatziki, hummus, tabbouleh, or a fresh Mediterranean salad. Grilled vegetables and warm flatbreads also complement the dish beautifully.

How do I prevent the meat from sticking to the grill?

To prevent sticking, ensure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled before cooking. Additionally, brushing a light coat of oil on the lamb pieces can help.

Can I freeze the marinated lamb?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated lamb in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before grilling.

How do I know when the lamb is cooked to medium-rare?

For medium-rare lamb, aim for an internal temperature of about 135°F (57°C). Using a meat thermometer can help achieve precise doneness.

Can I use metal skewers?

Certainly. Metal skewers are durable and reusable. If using metal skewers, be cautious as they can become very hot during cooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe with other meats?

Yes, this marinade works well with other meats such as beef or chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the type and cut of meat used.

Conclusion

Lamb kebabs offer a delectable combination of rich flavors and tender meat, making them a standout dish for any occasion. By following this recipe, you can create a memorable meal that showcases the timeless appeal of this culinary classic. Enjoy experimenting with variations and pairings to make it uniquely yours.

Lamb Kebab

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These tender and juicy Lamb Kebabs are marinated in aromatic spices including allspice, nutmeg, and cardamom, then grilled to perfection. A perfect dish for cookouts or Mediterranean-inspired dinners, these kebabs offer rich, savory flavors that pair well with salads, dips, and flatbreads.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 10min
Total Time: 25min
Yield: 6servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Prepare the Lamb: Trim and cube the lamb. Season with kosher salt and black pepper.
Make the Marinade: Blend onion, garlic, parsley, lemon zest and juice, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, and olive oil until smooth.
Marinate: Coat lamb cubes in marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Prepare Skewers: Soak wooden skewers if using. Thread lamb onto skewers.
Grill: Preheat grill to high. Cook skewers for 7–9 minutes, turning to brown all sides.
Serve: Let rest briefly before serving with your favorite sides.

Notes

Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
Add bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes to skewers for variation.
Lamb shoulder or tenderloin can be used as alternatives.
If no grill is available, use a grill pan or broiler.
For medium-rare lamb, aim for 135°F (57°C) internal temperature.
Can freeze marinated lamb for up to 3 months.