Delicious and Authentic Turkish Doner Kebab Recipe

4 stars
4.44 (18)
Delicious and Authentic Turkish Doner Kebab Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
60 mins
Total Time:
80mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on October 07, 2023

Learn how to make a mouthwatering and authentic Turkish Doner Kebab at home with this easy recipe. Tender spiced meat, fresh veggies, and a tangy yogurt sauce are layered into warm pita bread, creating a delicious street food experience. Perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a quick and satisfying meal!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless lamb or chicken, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 pita breads
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup sliced tomatoes
  • 1 cup sliced onions
  • 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, yogurt, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, coriander, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the sliced meat to the marinade and mix until well coated. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
  3. Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
  4. Skewer the marinated meat slices tightly onto metal skewers or wooden skewers that have been soaked in water for 30 minutes.
  5. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked and slightly charred.
  6. While the meat is grilling, prepare the yogurt sauce by combining plain yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt and pepper in a bowl.
  7. Remove the grilled meat from the skewers and let it rest for a few minutes.
  8. Warm the pita breads on the grill or in a toaster oven.
  9. To assemble the kebabs, spread a spoonful of yogurt sauce on each pita bread. Top with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, grilled meat, chopped parsley, and mint.
  10. Drizzle more yogurt sauce on top and squeeze some lemon juice over the fillings.
  11. Fold the pita breads tightly and secure with foil or parchment paper.
  12. Serve the authentic Turkish Doner Kebabs warm with extra yogurt sauce on the side.
  13. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Doner kebab is one of the most popular street foods in Turkey and has gained worldwide popularity.
  • Traditionally, doner kebabs are cooked on a vertical rotisserie, but grilling or broiling is a great alternative for home cooking.
  • Lamb and chicken are the most commonly used meats for doner kebabs, but you can also use beef or a combination of meats.
  • The yogurt sauce adds a creamy and tangy flavor to the kebab, balancing the spices and adding freshness.
  • Doner kebabs are often served with a side of fries or rice for a complete meal.