Cooking Guide: Turkish Style Adana Kebab Sandwich
Craving something bold and flavorful? *Turkish Style Adana Kebab Sandwich**! This dish combines succulent, spiced minced meat with fresh vegetables, all wrapped in warm pita bread. Perfect for a hearty meal or a delightful gathering with friends, this recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Turkey!
Why Adana Kebab?
Adana Kebab is renowned for its rich flavors and unique spice blend. Originating from the city of Adana in Turkey, this dish is not only delicious but also versatile. Serve it as a sandwich or on a plate with rice and salad—either way, it’s a winner!
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Ingredients (Serves 5)
For the Kebabs:
– **1 lb (450g)** ground lamb (or beef)
– **1 medium onion**, grated
– **4 cloves** garlic, minced
– **1 tablespoon** red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– **1 teaspoon** cumin
– **1 teaspoon** paprika
– **1 teaspoon** salt
– **1/2 teaspoon** black pepper
– **1 tablespoon** fresh parsley, chopped
– **1 tablespoon** olive oil
For the Sandwich:
– **5 pita breads** (or flatbreads)
– **1 large tomato**, sliced
– **1 cucumber**, sliced
– **1 small red onion**, thinly sliced
– **Fresh parsley** for garnish
– **Lemon wedges** for serving
For the Sauce (optional):
– **1/2 cup** yogurt
– **1 tablespoon** tahini
– **1 tablespoon** lemon juice
– **Salt and pepper** to taste
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Grocery List
– Ground lamb (or beef)
– Onion
– Garlic
– Red pepper flakes
– Cumin
– Paprika
– Salt and pepper
– Fresh parsley
– Olive oil
– Pita breads (or flatbreads)
– Tomato
– Cucumber
– Red onion
– Yogurt
– Tahini
– Lemon
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Cooking Time
– **Prep Time:** 20 minutes
– **Cook Time:** 15 minutes
– **Total Time:** 35 minutes
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Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Kebab Mixture
1. **Mix Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, parsley, and olive oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. **Chill Mixture:** Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 15 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together.
Step 2: Shape the Kebabs
1. **Preheat Grill or Skillet:** Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. **Form Kebabs:** Take a handful of the meat mixture and mold it around skewers (if using) or form into elongated patties. Make sure they are compact to prevent falling apart during cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Kebabs
1. **Grill or Sear:** Place the kebabs on the grill or in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) for safety.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce (Optional)
1. **Mix Sauce Ingredients:** In a small bowl, combine yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich
1. **Warm Pita:** Warm the pita breads on the grill or in a pan for a minute or two.
2. **Layer Ingredients:** Place a kebab in each pita, top with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of the yogurt sauce (if using).
3. **Garnish:** Add fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
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Tips & Notes
– **Meat Choice:** Lamb is traditional, but beef or a mix of both works well too.
– **Spice Level:** Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
– **Make Ahead:** You can prepare the kebab mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
– **Serving Suggestion:** Serve with a side of rice pilaf or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
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Nutritional Information (per sandwich)
– **Calories:** ~450 kcal
– **Protein:** 25g
– **Carbohydrates:** 40g
– **Fat:** 22g
– **Fiber:** 3g
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Indulge in the robust flavors of Turkish Style Adana Kebab Sandwich! Perfect for lunch, dinner, or any gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!
