Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs

Middle Eastern Kebabs are the star of any grill party! These Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs are packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, you’ll be enjoying tender, juicy kebabs in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices creates a unique and delicious taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can easily whip up these kebabs without any hassle.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or served alongside salads, rice, or pita bread.
• Grill or Oven Ready: Perfect for outdoor grilling or baking indoors, making it suitable for all seasons.
• Feed a Crowd: This recipe serves 8, making it ideal for parties or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your kebabs easier and more efficient. Here’s what you need to get started!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food Processor
• Mixing Bowl
• Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
• Grill or Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Food Processor: Helps in finely chopping herbs and garlic quickly, enhancing the flavor mix.
• Mixing Bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Skewers: Essential for shaping your kebabs; they allow even cooking on the grill or in the oven.

Ingredients

Middle Eastern Kebabs are just what you need for grilling season! With easy preparations and a hearty meal, you’ll undoubtedly satisfy your tummy’s cravings.

For the Meat Mixture

• 1 pound Ground Beef/Kebabs (80 lean / 20 fat)
• 1 pound Ground Lamb (or just use beef)

For Flavoring

• ½ bunch Parsley
• 4 Garlic Cloves
• ½ Yellow Onion

Spices & Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder
• 1 tablespoon Onion Powder
• 1 tablespoon 7 spices
• ½ tablespoon Coriander Powder
• 1 tablespoon Sumac
• ½ tablespoon Aleppo Pepper
• ¼ tablespoon Black Pepper

Additional Ingredients

• 2-3 teaspoons Salt (Or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon Baking Soda (Secret Ingredient)

How to Make Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs

Step 1: Prepare the Herb Mixture

1. Chop your parsley and garlic or add them to a food processor then blend them into a fine mixture.
2. Add this mixture directly to the ground meat in your mixing bowl.

Step 2: Process the Onion

1. Peel and chop the yellow onion separately.
2. Use a paper towel to squeeze out all the liquid from the onion; ensure not to discard this liquid as it adds flavor.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the chopped onion along with all the spices into the meat mixture.
2. Mix everything well until fully combined. Don’t skip adding baking soda; it helps retain moisture in your kebabs.

Step 4: Chill Before Shaping

1. Cover the meat mixture and place it in the fridge for about 45 minutes until it’s cold.
2. When ready, use reserved onion liquid to add extra flavor while shaping onto skewers.

Step 5: Grill Your Kebabs

1. Preheat your grill on medium-low heat.
2. Cook kebabs on skewers until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks, usually around 10-15 minutes depending on thickness.

Enjoy these delicious Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs

Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions that can enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Pita Bread

• Serve the kebabs wrapped in warm pita bread for a classic touch. Add fresh veggies and sauces for extra flavor.

Over Rice Pilaf

• Place the kebabs over a bed of fluffy rice pilaf. This adds an aromatic touch that complements the savory kebabs perfectly.

Accompanied by Tzatziki Sauce

• Pair your kebabs with a refreshing tzatziki sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, and herbs. It provides a cooling contrast to the spices.

On a Salad

• Serve the kebabs sliced over a fresh salad made with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for added zest.

As Part of a Mezze Platter

• Include your kebabs on a mezze platter alongside hummus, baba ganoush, and olives. This makes for a delightful sharing experience.

How to Perfect Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs

To achieve the perfect juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs, consider these essential tips that will elevate your grilling game.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use high-quality ground beef and lamb for richer flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t Skip Refrigeration: Resting the mixture in the fridge helps meld flavors and makes it easier to shape.
• Use Reserved Onion Liquid: Incorporate the reserved onion liquid when shaping for added moisture and flavor.
• Grill on Medium-Low Heat: This ensures even cooking without drying out the meat.
• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on cooking time; overcooked kebabs can become tough.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences for personal flair.

Best Side Dishes for Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs

Pairing side dishes with your Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs can enhance the meal significantly. Here are some great options:

1. Tabbouleh Salad
   A refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, bulgur, and lemon juice; it adds brightness to your meal.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables seasoned with olive oil and herbs; roasting brings out their natural sweetness.

3. Couscous
   Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs and lemon is a quick and easy side that complements kebabs beautifully.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and grilled until charred; it’s a fun addition to any barbecue spread.

5. Hummus with Veggies
   Creamy hummus served with crunchy vegetable sticks offers a tasty dipping option alongside kebabs.

6. Stuffed Grape Leaves
   Flavorful grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs; they provide an authentic Middle Eastern touch to your meal.

7. Pickled Vegetables
   Tangy pickled vegetables add crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the kebabs perfectly.

8. Yogurt Sauce
   A simple yogurt sauce mixed with herbs or garlic enhances flavors while providing creaminess to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Parsley: Failing to include fresh parsley can lead to a lack of freshness in flavor. Always chop the parsley finely and incorporate it into the meat mixture for a vibrant taste.
• Not Squeezing the Onion: Leaving excess moisture in the onion can make your kebabs soggy. Always squeeze out as much liquid as possible before adding the onion to the meat.
• Over-mixing the Meat: Mixing too much can toughen your kebabs. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed for a tender result.
• Neglecting Chill Time: Skipping the fridge step may compromise your kebab’s shape and texture. Always chill the mixture for at least 45 minutes before skewering.
• Ignoring Baking Soda: Omitting baking soda can result in dry kebabs. This ingredient helps retain moisture, so don’t skip it!
• Grilling at High Temperatures: Cooking on high heat can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use medium-low heat for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover kebabs in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs

• Wrap kebabs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze them for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake on a lined tray until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until hot.
• Stovetop: Sauté gently over medium heat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs that might help you when making this dish.

How do I make Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs spicier?

To add more spice, increase the amount of Aleppo pepper or add additional spices like cayenne pepper or chili flakes based on your preference.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef or lamb?

Yes! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative while still providing great flavor. Just adjust seasoning as needed.

What can I serve with Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs?

These kebabs pair excellently with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with yogurt sauce or tahini for added flavor.

How do I prevent my kebabs from falling apart?

Ensure proper chilling time before grilling and avoid over-mixing the meat. Using skewers that have soaked in water can also help keep them intact during grilling.

Final Thoughts

Juicy Middle Eastern Kebabs are not only delicious but versatile enough to suit any occasion. Feel free to customize them with different spices or serve them alongside your favorite sides. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!