Name: Doner Kebab: The Viral Homemade Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 2.2 lb Ground beef or lamb (or a mix); 1 Onion (grated); 3 Garlic cloves (grated); 1/4 cup Plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons Olive oil; Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste); 2 teaspoons Cumin; 1 tablespoon Sweet paprika; 2 teaspoons Oregano; 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional); 2 tablespoons Tomato paste (or BBQ sauce); Warm pita (or a large tortilla); Shredded lettuce (or cabbage); Red onion (sliced); Pickles; Tahini sauce (optional); Tzatziki (optional); Fresh parsley (optional)

Introduction

Doner Kebab is a deliciously spiced meat dish that has become a viral sensation, loved for its tender texture and vibrant flavors. This recipe brings the authentic street food experience right to your kitchen with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week.

A close-up view of a large wrap sandwich cut in half horizontally, held by two hands on both sides. The wrap has multiple thin layers of dark brown cooked meat stacked tightly in the center, surrounded by creamy white sauce spread unevenly over it. Bright green lettuce leaves add a fresh crunch layer above and below the meat. The wrap bread is golden brown with a slightly crispy texture, wrapping all layers snugly. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2.2 lb ground beef or lamb (or a mix)

1 onion, grated

3 garlic cloves, grated

1/4 cup plain yogurt

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste

2 teaspoons cumin

1 tablespoon sweet paprika

2 teaspoons oregano

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

2 tablespoons tomato paste (or BBQ sauce)

Warm pita or a large tortilla

Shredded lettuce or cabbage

Red onion, sliced

Pickles

Tahini sauce (optional)

Tzatziki (optional)

Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion, garlic, yogurt, tomato paste, salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, oregano, and olive oil. Mix thoroughly with your hands until the mixture is sticky and cohesive. This helps achieve the classic doner texture.

Step 2: Divide the meat mixture into 5 equal portions. Place a large piece of parchment paper on your work surface, set one portion on it, then cover with another sheet of parchment paper.

Step 3: Using a rolling pin, roll the meat into a very thin, even rectangle. Keep the thickness consistent and press out air pockets for an even cook.

Step 4: Remove the top parchment sheet. Using the bottom parchment, carefully roll the thin meat sheet into a tight, compact log, similar to rolling a Swiss roll. Twist the ends of the parchment to secure the shape.

Step 5: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the rolled meat, still wrapped in parchment, on a baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Step 6: Remove from the oven and let the meat rest for 5 minutes. Then slice thinly and use two forks to shred it slightly, mimicking the authentic kebab texture.

Step 7: Fill warm pita bread or a large tortilla with the sliced meat and top with shredded lettuce, sliced red onion, pickles, and your choice of tahini sauce, tzatziki, or fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the meat mixture in the refrigerator for a few hours before shaping and baking.

If you prefer, substitute lamb with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.

Add chopped fresh herbs like mint or cilantro to the meat mix for a fresh twist.

Use BBQ sauce instead of tomato paste for a smoky flavor variation.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free flatbreads or serve the meat with gluten-free wraps or over rice to keep this dish gluten-free.

What can I use instead of yogurt in the meat mixture?

If you don’t have yogurt, you can substitute with sour cream or omit it entirely, though yogurt helps tenderize the meat and adds moisture.

Dinner

Doner Kebab: The Viral Homemade Recipe