
Spicy Lamb and Bulgur Kebab with Sumac Onions
There’s something magical about the way the smoky scent of grilling lamb mingles with the earthy aroma of fine bulgur. This kebab, a cherished specialty from southeastern Turkey, brings together tender minced lamb, a whisper of chili heat, and the nutty chew of bulgur in every bite. As you shape the mixture onto skewers, you’ll feel the cool, spiced meat yielding under your fingers, promising a crust that will char and crackle over the coals. Once off the grill, you’ll nestle the kebabs onto a warm flatbread, drape them with whisper-thin slices of red onion tossed in tangy sumac, and finish with a handful of fresh flat-leaf parsley. A squeeze of lemon awakens all the flavors, making this a meal you’ll crave long after the last bite. It’s rustic, bold, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
- lamb mince500g
- fine bulgur50g
- onion1 medium, grated
- garlic cloves2, minced
- red chili flakes1 tsp
- ground cumin1 tsp
- ground coriander1 tsp
- salt1 tsp
- black pepper½ tsp
- fresh parsley¼ cup, finely chopped
- red onion1 large, thinly sliced
- sumac2 tbsp
- lemon juice2 tbsp
- flatbreads4 pieces
- olive oil2 tbsp
Nutrition
Directions
- 1
Place the fine bulgur in a small bowl and cover with hot water. Let it soak for 10 minutes until softened, then drain any excess water.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine the lamb mince, softened bulgur, grated onion, minced garlic, chili flakes, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix thoroughly with your hands for 5 minutes until the mixture is sticky and well combined.
- 3
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up.
- 4
Meanwhile, prepare the sumac onions: toss the sliced red onion with sumac, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Set aside to marinate while the kebabs rest.
- 5
Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each around a flat metal skewer, forming long, oval kebabs about 10cm in length. Press firmly so the meat adheres.
- 6
Grill the skewers over medium-high heat (charcoal or gas) for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely charred and cooked through. Alternatively, cook in a hot griddle pan.
- 7
Warm the flatbreads on the grill or in a dry pan. Serve each flatbread topped with two kebabs, a generous pile of sumac onions, and extra parsley. Squeeze lemon over the top and eat immediately.
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