Intermediate-Level Spiced Lamb Kebabs with Middle Eastern Herbs

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy lamb kebabs marinated with a blend of Middle Eastern spices and fresh herbs, grilled to smoky perfection. This middle eastern ready in about 32 minutes pairs ground lamb, onion, garlic cloves for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 6, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 12 min Serves 6 Middle Eastern cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 500g ground lamb, 1 small finely grated onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp ground cumin, 1 tbsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
  2. Step 2: Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each around a soaked wooden skewer to form elongated kebabs, about 5 inches long.
  3. Step 3: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush 2 tbsp olive oil over the kebabs to prevent sticking.
  4. Step 4: Grill the lamb kebabs for 4-5 minutes per side, turning carefully until they are evenly browned and cooked through with a slight char.
  5. Step 5: Remove from heat and let rest for 3 minutes before serving with your favorite Middle Eastern accompaniments.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Intermediate-Level Spiced Lamb Kebabs with Middle Eastern Herbs take to make?

Total time is about 32 minutes (20 min prep + 12 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Intermediate-Level Spiced Lamb Kebabs with Middle Eastern Herbs?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep ground lamb from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Intermediate-Level Spiced Lamb Kebabs with Middle Eastern Herbs?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Intermediate-Level Spiced Lamb Kebabs with Middle Eastern Herbs for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Intermediate-Level Spiced Lamb Kebabs with Middle Eastern Herbs?

Middle Eastern middle eastern like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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