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Homemade Viral Doner Kebab Recipe

4.7 from 129 reviews

Homemade Doner Kebab is a nostalgic street food favorite recreated in your oven. Ground lamb is seasoned with onion paste, garlic, yogurt, and spices, then shaped into thin, rolled meat sheets that bake to tender, juicy perfection with slightly crispy edges. Served warm in pita with fresh vegetables and garlic sauce, this recipe is an easy way to enjoy authentic doner kebab flavors at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 450 grams ground lamb (or any ground meat)
  • 1 grated onion, processed into a paste with 1 tsp water
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1.5 teaspoons sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/4 cup full-fat yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the doner kebab.
  2. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb with the grated onion paste, minced garlic, salt, sweet paprika, oregano, yogurt, and olive oil. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute spices and ingredients.
  3. Divide the meat mixture: Split the combined meat mixture into two equal portions.
  4. Shape the meat sheets: Place one portion of the meat onto a sheet of parchment paper. Keep a small bowl of water or oil nearby to dip your fingers to prevent sticking. Press and spread the meat into a thin, even rectangle on the parchment. Repeat for the second portion.
  5. Roll the meat: Starting from the long edge, carefully fold the parchment paper over the meat repeatedly until it forms a compact, flat rope shape. This layering helps create the texture of a doner kebab.
  6. Bake the meat rolls: Place the rolled meat parcels on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked through.
  7. Cool and unwrap: Remove the meat rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Carefully unroll the parchment and break the meat apart into thin shavings.
  8. Finish with lemon and crisping: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the meat shavings, then return the pan to the oven briefly to allow the meat to become lightly golden and slightly crisp on the edges.
  9. Serve: Enjoy the doner kebab meat in warm pita bread or in a bowl. Top with fresh lettuce, pickles, tomato, red onion, and your preferred garlic sauce or toum for an authentic taste.

Notes

  • Lamb is traditional, but ground beef, chicken, or turkey can be substituted based on preference.
  • Use full-fat plain or Greek yogurt for tenderizing and flavor.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for brightness if desired.
  • This recipe can be served gluten-free by using gluten-free pita or bowls.
  • Spices can be adjusted: smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor; chili flakes provide heat.
  • Keep your fingers wet with water or oil while shaping to prevent sticking.
  • You can use store-bought garlic sauce or toum, or make your own by mixing yogurt, garlic, mayo, and salt.

Keywords: doner kebab, homemade doner, ground lamb recipe, Turkish kebab, oven baked meat, street food recipe