Instructions
8 steps · tick them off as you cookIn a skillet over medium heat, toast 1 tbsp cumin seeds and 1 tsp coriander seeds until fragrant, about 90 seconds, then crush in a mortar.
In a bowl, combine 1.5 lb ground lamb, the toasted spices, 1 grated small onion (squeezed dry), 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tbsp chopped parsley, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp tomato paste; knead 2 minutes until tacky.
2 minutesCover and chill 30 minutes so the fat firms up for easier shaping.
30 minutesDivide into 8 portions and mould each around a flat metal skewer into a 5-inch log, pressing firmly.
Meanwhile, char 2 red bell peppers directly over a flame or under the broiler until blackened, then steam in a covered bowl for 10 minutes and peel.
10 minutesDice the peppers and toss with 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 minced garlic clove, and a pinch of salt to make the relish.
Preheat a grill to high (450°F / 230°C) and grill the kebabs 3 minutes per side, turning once, until browned outside and just pink within (internal 145°F / 63°C).
3 minutesRest 5 minutes, then serve topped with the pepper relish and a sprinkle of parsley.
5 minutes
Chef's tip
Kneading the lamb for a full 2 minutes develops the myosin proteins that bind the meat to the skewer — skip this step and the kebabs will fall apart on the grill.
Suggested pairing
Pair with saffron rice, warm flatbread, and a bold glass of Syrah or Nero d'Avola.
About this recipe
Juicy, cumin-spiked lamb kebabs kissed by smoke, paired with a sweet-tangy relish of blistered peppers and red wine vinegar.
MediterraneanIntermediatesmokyhigh-proteinspicysummer


