Introduction

Adana kebab is a delicious and satisfying dish that originates from the city of Adana in Turkey. Made from ground lamb or beef, mixed with spices and herbs, and grilled on a skewer, Adana kebab is a favorite among kebab lovers.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground lamb or beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon red pepper paste
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh mint
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

To make Adana kebab, you will need the following equipment:

  • A large mixing bowl
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
  • A grill or grill pan
  • A sharp knife and cutting board for preparing the vegetables
  • A spoon or spatula for mixing the ingredients and shaping the kebabs

Optional equipment:

  • A food processor or meat grinder, if you prefer to grind your own meat
  • A mortar and pestle, if you prefer to grind the spices by hand
  • A grill brush, for cleaning the grill grates before cooking the kebabs

Preparation:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef with the onion, tomato paste, red pepper paste, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic, parsley, and mint. Mix well until all of the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  2. Form the mixture into small balls and thread them onto the wooden skewers. Make sure to leave some space between each ball so that they cook evenly.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kebabs are cooked through and nicely charred.
  4. Serve the kebabs hot, with a side of rice or flatbread, and a garnish of parsley and onion.

Topping Ideas:

Adana kebab is delicious on its own, but there are many tasty toppings that you can add to make it even more satisfying. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Yogurt: A dollop of plain yogurt adds a tangy and refreshing flavor to the kebab. You can also mix in some chopped fresh herbs, such as dill or mint, for added flavor.
  • Red pepper flakes: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a spicy kick to the kebab. You can adjust the amount to your taste.
  • Pomegranate molasses: A drizzle of pomegranate molasses adds a sweet and sour flavor to the kebab. You can find pomegranate molasses at many Middle Eastern or specialty food stores.
  • Lemon juice: A squeeze of lemon juice adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the kebab. You can also serve lemon wedges on the side for people to add their own.
  • Hot sauce: A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce, such as sriracha or chili garlic sauce, adds a spicy and flavorful touch to the kebab.
  • Salsa: A spoonful of your favorite salsa, such as tomato salsa or avocado salsa, adds a fresh and flavorful touch to the kebab. You can also serve salsa on the side for people to add to their own kebab.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

To store leftover Adana kebab, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat the kebab, preheat your oven to 350°F and place the kebab on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Alternatively, you can also reheat the kebab in a skillet over medium heat. Add a little bit of oil to the skillet and heat until hot. Place the kebab in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

It's important to reheat the kebab slowly and gently to prevent it from drying out or becoming tough. If you're using a skillet, you can add a little bit of water or broth to the skillet to help keep the kebab moist.

Serving:

Adana kebab is a hearty and satisfying dish, so one skewer per person is usually enough. However, if you're serving it as part of a larger meal, you can expect each skewer to serve 2-3 people.

Here are a few serving ideas for Adana kebab:

  • Serve the kebab with a side of rice or flatbread, and a salad of your choice.
  • Make a kebab wrap by placing the kebab and your choice of toppings and condiments in a flatbread or tortilla. Roll it up and enjoy.
  • Serve the kebab with roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
  • Make a kebab bowl by placing the kebab over a bed of lettuce or mixed greens and topping it with your choice of vegetables, grains, and dressings.
  • Serve the kebab as an appetizer at a party, along with a selection of dips and sauces for people to choose from.

Conclusion

Adana kebab is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a satisfying meal on a weeknight or a tasty treat to share with friends and family, Adana kebab is sure to please.