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Turkish Lamb Kebabs

These authentic Turkish lamb kebabs bring the vibrant flavours of a Mediterranean grill directly to your garden or kitchen. This high-protein dish features tender leg of lamb seasoned with distinctive Maras and Urfa peppers, which provide a nuanced heat and smoky depth without being overpowering. The addition of a fresh, homemade salsa made from flat-leaf parsley, red onion, and sun-ripened tomatoes adds a bright, zesty contrast to the rich, savoury grilled meat.

Perfect for a summer barbecue or a nutritious weekend feast, these kebabs are traditionally served wrapped in soft, toasted lavash bread. This serving style makes them easy to handle and ideal for casual dining with friends and family. For a complete Middle Eastern inspired meal, pair these succulent wraps with a dollop of cool garlicky yoghurt or a fresh citrus-heavy bulgur wheat salad.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Turkish Lamb Kebabs

  • 1 medium red onion, finely chopped (1/2 cup)

  • 1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

  • 1 medium tomato, diced (110g )

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1/2 tablespoons Urfa pepper*

  • 1/2 tablespoons Maras pepper*

  • 6 tablespoons olive oil

  • 3/4 teaspoons salt

  • 1 (1 1/2-lb) piece boneless leg of lamb, trimmed and cut into 32 (1-inch) cubes

  • 1/2 teaspoons black pepper

  • 4 (10-inch) square pieces soft lavash bread*

  • 8 (10-inch) wooden skewers, soaked in water 30 minutes

How to make Turkish Lamb Kebabs

If using a charcoal grill, open vents on bottom of grill, then light charcoal. Charcoal fire is medium-hot when you can hold your hand 5 inches above rack for 3 to 4 seconds. If using a gas grill, preheat burners on high, covered, 10 minutes, then reduce heat to moderate.

Stir together onion, parsley, tomato, oregano, Urfa and Maras peppers, 2 tablespoons oil, and 1/4 teaspoons salt.

Pat lamb dry, then toss with black pepper, 1 tablespoon oil, and remaining 1/2 teaspoons salt and thread 4 lamb cubes onto each skewer, leaving a little space in between cubes. Brush lavash (on both sides) with remaining 45ml oil and transfer to a platter.

Grill lamb, covered only if using a gas grill, on lightly oiled grill rack, turning over once, until medium-rare, 6 to 8 minutes total. Transfer lamb skewers to a platter and cover with foil to keep warm.

Grill lavash, covered only if using a gas grill, turning over once, until just heated through and lightly browned but still flexible, about 45 seconds total.

Remove lamb from skewers and divide among pieces of lavash. Top lamb with tomato mixture and roll up lavash to enclose lamb. Serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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