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Kebabs are a beloved dish enjoyed worldwide, known for their juicy, flavorful meat cooked to perfection on a skewer. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving a delectable meal, this kebab recipe will become your go-to. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating mouthwatering kebabs that will impress your taste buds and guests alike.

Ingredients:

For the kebabs:

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) boneless chicken breast or lamb, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the side salad:

• 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula, etc.)
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Marinade Preparation:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, and all the spices (cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt).

2. Marinate the Meat: Add the chicken or lamb cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the meat to absorb all the flavors, making the kebabs more tender and delicious.

Skewering and Grilling:

1. Preheat the Grill: If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals turn white-hot before cooking. For a gas grill, preheat to medium-high heat.

2. Prepare the Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers can be used directly.

3. Thread the Meat: Remove the marinated meat from the refrigerator. Thread the cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.

4. Grill the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and has a nice char. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and lamb should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.

Side Salad Preparation:

1. Mix the Greens: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, tomato, red onion, olives, and feta cheese (if using).

2. Dress the Salad: Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving the Kebabs:

1. Plate the Kebabs: Once the kebabs are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.

2. Garnish and Serve: Arrange the kebabs on a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

3. Serve with Side Salad: Serve the kebabs with the prepared side salad for a complete and balanced meal. You can also add some warm pita bread, hummus, or tzatziki sauce for extra flavor.

Tips for Perfect Kebabs:

• Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate the meat, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Overnight marination is ideal.
• Uniform Pieces: Cut the meat into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• High Heat: Cooking over high heat helps to sear the meat quickly, locking in the juices and creating a delicious char.
• Resting Time: Allowing the meat to rest after grilling ensures it stays juicy and flavorful.

Enjoy your delicious kebabs straight from the skewer to the plate, bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion!