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Mediterranean

Spiced Lamb Kebabs with Charred Pepper Relish

Juicy, cumin-spiked lamb kebabs kissed by smoke, paired with a sweet-tangy relish of blistered peppers and red wine vinegar.

40 min4 servingsIntermediateMediterranean

Ingredients

  • 1,5 lb ground lamb
  • 1 tbsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp coriander seeds
  • 1 unit small onion, grated
  • 4 unit garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 unit red bell peppers
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. 1

    In 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.

  2. 2

    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.

  3. 3

    Cover and chill 30 minutes so the fat firms up for easier shaping.

  4. 4

    Divide into 8 portions and mould each around a flat metal skewer into a 5-inch log, pressing firmly.

  5. 5

    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.

  6. 6

    Dice 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.

  7. 7

    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).

  8. 8

    Rest 5 minutes, then serve topped with the pepper relish and a sprinkle of parsley.

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.

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