Main Courses > Grilled & BBQ > Charcoal & Flame > Kebabs (Shish)

Grilled Lamb Shish Kebab with Yogurt Marinade

Tender and flavorful lamb shish kebabs marinated in a creamy yogurt sauce, perfect for grilling. Serve with pita bread and your favorite toppings for a complete meal.

Prep Time
20 minutes (plus at least 2 hours for marinating)
Cook Time
15-20 minutes
Servings
6
Ingredients
  • 2 lbs Lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup Plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1 Red onion, cut into wedges
  • 2 Bell peppers (red, yellow, green), cut into 1-inch pieces

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried rosemary, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure all ingredients are well combined to create a smooth and flavorful marinade.

Marinate the Lamb

Add the lamb cubes to the bowl with the marinade. Toss to coat the lamb evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer the lamb marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will become. Make sure to turn the lamb occasionally to ensure it marinates evenly.

Prepare the Kebabs

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Thread the marinated lamb cubes onto the skewers, alternating with red onion wedges and bell pepper pieces. Make sure not to overcrowd the skewers, allowing for even cooking.

Grill the Kebabs

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450°F or 190-230°C). Place the kebabs on the grill grates and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb is cooked through and has a slight char. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the lamb reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.

Rest and Serve

Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat. Serve the lamb shish kebabs with warm pita bread, hummus, tzatziki sauce, or a fresh salad.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 220kcal
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 5g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

The nutritional values can vary based on the specific cut of lamb used and the amount of marinade consumed. Consider using lean lamb and trimming excess fat to reduce the overall fat content. Serving with whole wheat pita bread can increase the fiber content.

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FAQ

  • Can I use a different type of meat?

    Yes, you can substitute the lamb with beef, chicken, or even tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat you choose.
  • Can I make these kebabs ahead of time?

    Yes, you can prepare the kebabs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. Make sure to keep them covered to prevent them from drying out.
  • What if I don't have a grill?

    You can also cook these kebabs in a grill pan on the stovetop or under the broiler in your oven. If using the broiler, keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.