Urfa Kebab is an unparalleled delight for kebab enthusiasts. With its special blend of spices and easy cooking techniques, this kebab type delights both the eyes and the palate. If you want to experience the traditional Urfa Kebab flavor at home, here’s a comprehensive recipe for making Urfa Kebab with key tips and tricks!
Ingredients for Urfa Kebab
To make Urfa Kebab at home, the most important ingredient is using fresh and high-quality meat. Here’s what you need for the recipe:
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500 grams of mixed beef and lamb mince (70% beef, 30% lamb)
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1 large onion (grated)
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2 cloves garlic (crushed)
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1 tsp red pepper flakes (pul biber)
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1 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp cumin
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½ tsp salt
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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½ cup olive oil
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½ cup water
Note: The special spice blend in Urfa Kebab emphasizes non-spicy flavors with a touch of red pepper flakes. If you prefer less spice, feel free to adjust the spice levels to your taste.
Making Urfa Kebab
Step 1: Preparing the Mince
Start by placing the mince ingredients into a large mixing bowl. The meat should be fresh and well-balanced, with a combination of beef and lamb for the perfect flavor. Knead the meat mixture well. Proper kneading (about 10-15 minutes) helps the kebab become tender and juicy.
Step 2: Adding Spices
Add the grated onion, crushed garlic, and spices (red pepper flakes, black pepper, cumin, and salt) to the meat mixture. Then, stir in the tomato paste and olive oil. Knead again until the mixture becomes uniform and smooth. The kneading process is essential for the kebab’s texture.
Step 3: Shaping the Kebab
Once the mixture is ready, use a kebab skewer machine or hand to shape the Urfa Kebab. Wet the skewers slightly to prevent the meat from sticking. Carefully mold the meat mixture around the skewer, ensuring an even distribution. Be sure the meat is compact, but not too tightly packed.
Step 4: Cooking the Kebab
The best way to cook Urfa Kebab is over charcoal. Once the coals are glowing red, place the skewers on the grill. Cook each side for around 10-12 minutes, making sure the kebabs are charred on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.
Step 5: Serving
Serve the hot Urfa Kebab with fresh lavash bread, sumac onions, and leafy greens. You can also accompany it with a variety of mezze for a more elaborate meal.
Urfa Kebab vs. Adana Kebab: What’s the Difference?
While both Adana Kebab and Urfa Kebab are delicious, there are key differences. Adana Kebab is spicier, with coarser ground meat, while Urfa Kebab has a milder flavor and a finer texture. Urfa Kebab uses more subtle spices and avoids excessive heat, making it a more versatile option for different palates.
Tips for Perfect Urfa Kebab
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Always use fresh, high-quality meat. The quality of the beef and lamb directly influences the taste of the kebab.
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Knead the meat well to ensure tenderness.
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Avoid over-packing the meat on the skewer to ensure even cooking and a crisp outer layer.
Conclusion
Making Urfa Kebab at home allows you to adjust the spice and flavor according to your preference. The beauty of this kebab lies not only in its taste but also in the tradition it represents. Whether you’re cooking on a grill or using a pan, Urfa Kebab will bring a taste of southeastern Turkey to your kitchen. If you’re torn between Urfa Kebab and Adana Kebab, trying both will help you discover which one suits your taste best.
