Şiş Kebab is a traditional Northern Cypriot recipe for a classic kebab of marinated lamb cubes threaded on skewers and cooked on a barbecue. The full recipe is presented here and I hope you enjoy this classic Northern Cypriot version of: Şiş Kebab.
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This is a classic of Turkish Cypriot cuisine, skewered meat (typically lamb or chicken) marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper and cooked on a barbecue.
Ingredients:
500g lamb (leg or shoulder, cubed; or substitute chicken breast/thigh pieces for variation)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste
Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes to avoid burning)
Optional for serving:
Fresh flatbread or pita (such as Kıbrıs Pidesi)
Grilled tomatoes, peppers, and onions Cacık (Cypriot tzatziki) or salad to accompany
Method:
Begin by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt and black pepper.
Add the lamb pieces and toss to coat in the marinade then cover and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours (but best if left over night).
The following day, pre-heat your barbecue and when hot thread the marinated meat onto skewers (you can alternate the meat with vegetables: onion wedges, bell peppers or tomatoes, if you prefer).
Cook the meat skewers over medium-high heat, turning then frequently until the meat is charred on the outside and tender inside (about 10–12 minutes).
Allow the meat to rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy.
Serve immediately with flatbread, salad, and your choice of Cypriot meze (such as cacık).
