Ingredients
For the Doner Meat: 2 lbs (approx. 900g) Ground Lamb or Beef (or a mix)
1 small onion, grated or finely minced
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt & Black Pepper to taste (approx. 1.5 tsp salt, 0.5 tsp pepper)
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley (optional), chopped
For Serving: 6-8 pita breads or flatbreads
Shredded lettuce
Sliced or diced tomatoes, onions, cucumber
Instructions
1. 1. Prepare the Doner Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef with the grated onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. 2. Mix Thoroughly: Using your hands, mix all the ingredients together vigorously. Knead the mixture for about 5-7 minutes. This is crucial for developing the proper texture.
3. 3. Shape the Meat: On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, form the meat mixture into a compact, log-like shape. Press it firmly.
4. 4. Bake the Meat: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temp 160°F/71°C) and browned.
5. 5. Rest and Chill: Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours or overnight.
6. 6. Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: Whisk together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and dill/parsley (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate.
7. 7. Slice the Meat: Unwrap the chilled meat log. Using a very sharp knife, slice as thinly as possible.
8. 8. Sear the Slices: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Sear slices in a single layer for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy. Work in batches.
9. 9. Warm the Pitas: Lightly toast or warm pita breads until soft.
10. 10. Assemble Your Kebabs: Open each pita, fill with meat, shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, onions, cucumber, and garlic yogurt sauce. Serve immediately.
Notes
Don’t skip kneading and chilling steps for best texture. Use a sharp knife or electric carving knife for thin slices. Sear slices for crispness. Leftover meat stores in fridge for 3-4 days; freeze unsliced log for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Pan-searing
- Cuisine: Turkish/Mediterranean
- Diet: Omnivore
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kebab (based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
