Ingredients:
- For the Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) lamb or beef (preferably from the leg or shoulder), thinly sliced
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground sumac (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For the Kebab Assembly:
- Flatbreads or pita breads
- Fresh vegetables (e.g., lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions)
- Pickles (optional)
- Tzatziki sauce or garlic yogurt sauce
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, ground sumac (if using), ground cinnamon, ground black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Marinate the Meat:
- Add the thinly sliced lamb or beef to the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the meat marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Cook the Meat:
- Preheat your grill, grill pan, or oven broiler to high heat.
- If using a grill or grill pan, thread the marinated meat onto skewers. If using an oven broiler, you can lay the meat slices on a baking sheet lined with foil.
- Cook the meat for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until nicely browned and cooked through. If using an oven broiler, place the baking sheet about 6 inches from the heat source and broil, flipping once, until the meat is browned and cooked through.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the meat is cooking, prepare the fresh vegetables. Thinly slice the lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. If using pickles, slice them as well.
- Warm the Flatbreads:
- Warm the flatbreads or pita breads on the grill, in a dry skillet, or in the oven for a few minutes until they are soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Kebabs:
- Place a portion of the cooked meat on each warm flatbread or pita.
- Top with fresh vegetables and pickles (if using).
- Drizzle with tzatziki sauce or garlic yogurt sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Roll up the flatbread or pita around the fillings to create a wrap, or serve open-faced.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Turkish Doner Kebab!
Feel free to adjust the toppings and sauces according to your preferences. Enjoy the delicious, savory flavors of this traditional Turkish dish.
