Yogurtlu Kebab from Uni Kebab features tender, spiced grilled lamb skewers topped with creamy, tangy yogurt sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, served on a bed of fluffy rice, offering a harmonious blend of smoky, savory, and refreshing flavors.
Equipments
- Grill or barbecue
- Skewers
- Mixing bowls
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Serving plate or platter
- Ladle or spoon
- Rice cooker or pot
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) lamb shoulder or leg, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground sumac
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried mint
- 1 teaspoon salt (for yogurt sauce)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for yogurt sauce)
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt (for rice)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Sumac (for garnish)
- Paprika (for garnish)
Lamb shoulder or leg is ideal for Yogurtlu Kebab, as its tenderness allows it to absorb the blend of cumin, coriander, paprika, and sumac spices for a rich, smoky flavor. Use plain Greek yogurt to create the signature creamy and tangy sauce, mixing it with fresh dill, mint, lemon juice, and salt for balanced freshness. Basmati rice cooked with butter and seasoned water provides a fluffy, aromatic base that complements the grilled meat perfectly. Fresh herbs like parsley and a final sprinkle of sumac and paprika enhance the visual appeal and add bursts of flavor to your dish. Your copycat version of Yogurtlu Kebab from Uni Kebab will capture these essential elements to deliver an authentic dining experience.
Instructions
- Soak skewers in water (if wooden) for at least 30 minutes.
- Combine lamb, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, paprika, sumac, salt, pepper, and minced garlic in a mixing bowl; toss to coat.
- Marinate lamb for at least 1 hour (refrigerated), preferably longer.
- Thread marinated lamb cubes onto skewers.
- Preheat grill or barbecue to medium-high heat.
- Grill lamb skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked and slightly charred.
- In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, dill, fresh mint, dried mint, salt, and lemon juice to make the yogurt sauce.
- Cook basmati rice:
- a. Rinse rice until water runs clear.
- b. In a saucepan or rice cooker, combine rice, butter, water, and salt.
- c. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered until fluffy and water is absorbed (about 15–20 minutes).
- Arrange rice on a serving plate or platter.
- Place grilled lamb skewers on top of rice.
- Spoon yogurt sauce generously over skewers.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, sumac, and paprika.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Yogurtlu Kebab from Uni Kebab can be recreated at home by substituting lamb with beef or chicken if you prefer a milder flavor or have dietary restrictions. Greek yogurt is ideal for the creamy sauce, but plain yogurt strained through cheesecloth can be used to achieve a thicker consistency. If you don't have sumac, a blend of lemon zest and paprika provides a similar tangy and smoky flavor. When grilling, using metal skewers helps ensure even cooking and ease of handling, but wooden skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes work well too. Your rice cooker simplifies preparing the perfectly fluffy basmati rice needed to complement the rich kebabs.
Tips
Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill. Marinate your lamb for a minimum of one hour to ensure the spices fully infuse and tenderize the meat. Rinsing basmati rice thoroughly removes excess starch, resulting in fluffier, less sticky grains. When serving, spoon the yogurt sauce generously over the hot kebabs to balance the smoky lamb with refreshing creaminess, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dish.
Nutritions
Yogurtlu Kebab delivers a nutrient-rich meal with high-quality protein from lamb, essential for muscle repair and immune support. The dish contains healthy fats from olive oil and butter, contributing to heart health and satiety. Greek yogurt adds probiotics, calcium, and a creamy texture, enhancing digestive health and bone strength. Your serving also provides complex carbohydrates from basmati rice, offering sustained energy while fresh herbs supply antioxidants and vitamins.
Storage
Store leftover Yogurtlu Kebab in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly, ensuring the lamb skewers, rice, and yogurt sauce are kept separate to maintain texture and flavor quality. Consume within 2-3 days to enjoy optimal freshness and safety. Reheat the lamb skewers thoroughly on a grill or oven for even warming, avoiding microwave reheating to preserve the marinade's smokiness and prevent the yogurt sauce from curdling.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute lamb with chicken breast or thighs for a lighter variation while maintaining juicy, tender results. Instead of grilling, try cooking the skewers under a broiler or pan-searing them to achieve a similar charred flavor indoors. For an herb twist, replace fresh dill and mint with cilantro and parsley in the yogurt sauce to add a bright, slightly different herbal note. To enhance the rice, consider mixing in toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds before serving for extra texture and a nutty aroma.
Allergies
The presence of lamb, dairy in the Greek yogurt, and butter may trigger allergies in individuals sensitive to meat or lactose. Spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, and garlic can also cause reactions in those with specific spice allergies. Be sure to check the ingredients carefully if you have food allergies to avoid any adverse reactions when enjoying Your Yogurtlu Kebab.
Why this recipe?
Yogurtlu Kebab from Uni Kebab restaurant captivates diners with its tender, marinated lamb expertly grilled and topped with a refreshing layer of creamy yogurt, creating a perfect balance of smoky and tangy flavors. The dish combines traditional Middle Eastern spices with fresh herbs, elevating the taste experience and showcasing authentic regional cuisine. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate this flavorful blend in your own kitchen, offering an opportunity to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal anytime. Your homemade Yogurtlu Kebab can impress family and friends with its rich, aromatic profile and satisfying texture.