Doner kebab is a beloved street food classic, known for its savory, spiced meat and crispy edges. This homemade version brings all that flavor to your kitchen without a vertical rotisserie.
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Using a blend of ground lamb and beef, seasoned with aromatic spices, and baked into a loaf, then sliced and seared, you get that iconic taste and texture. It's perfect for stuffing into warm pita with fresh veggies and a tangy sauce.
Whether you're hosting a casual dinner or craving a taste of the Mediterranean, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
About the Ingredients
1 lb (450g) ground lamb
Ground lamb adds rich flavor; substitute with ground beef or chicken if preferred.
1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20)
80/20 beef gives moisture; use leaner beef but add 1 tbsp olive oil if lean.
1 medium onion, grated
Grated onion adds moisture and sweetness; use a box grater.
4 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh garlic is best; use 1 tsp garlic powder if needed.
2 tsp ground cumin
Cumin is essential; toast whole seeds and grind for more flavor.
2 tsp ground coriander
Coriander brightens the spice mix; if out, use extra cumin.
1 tsp smoked paprika
Smoked paprika adds depth; regular paprika works too.
1 tsp dried oregano
Oregano adds herbaceous note; use 1 tbsp fresh if available.
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Freshly ground pepper is best.
1 tsp salt
Adjust to taste; kosher salt preferred.
1 egg, beaten
Helps bind the meat; can omit if allergic.
1/4 cup (25g) breadcrumbs
Panko or regular; use gluten-free if needed.
Tips & Tricks
- Don't overmix the meat mixture, or the kebab will be tough.
- Chill the loaf before slicing for cleaner slices.
- Sear slices in a hot pan until browned for maximum flavor.
Pro Tips
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients until just mixed.
2. Shape the Loaf
Transfer mixture to the baking sheet and shape into a 9×4-inch loaf, about 2 inches thick. This shape ensures even cooking.
3. Bake the Loaf
Bake for 30-35 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is browned. Rest 10 minutes.
4. Slice Thinly
Using a sharp knife, slice the loaf thinly (about 1/4 inch thick). Slicing across the grain gives tender pieces.
5. Sear the Slices
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). Add slices in a single layer and cook 2-3 minutes per side until crispy and browned.
6. Serve Warm
Serve immediately in warm pita with lettuce, tomato, onion, and tzatziki or garlic sauce.
Delicious Variations
Chicken Doner
Use ground chicken and add 1 tsp turmeric.
Spicy Doner
Add 1 tsp chili flakes or harissa paste.
Veggie Doner
Use plant-based ground meat and adjust spices.
How to Store Doner Kebab
Refrigerator
Store sliced doner in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooked slices in a single layer, then transfer to a bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is doner kebab made of?
Traditional doner is made of lamb, beef, or chicken, marinated in spices and stacked on a vertical rotisserie. This recipe uses ground meat for home cooking.
Q: How do you get the meat to stay together?
The egg and breadcrumbs act as binders. Also, mixing until just combined and chilling the loaf helps it hold together when slicing.
Q: Can I make doner kebab in advance?
Yes, you can bake the loaf a day ahead, refrigerate, then slice and sear when ready to serve.
Q: What sauce goes with doner kebab?
Tzatziki, garlic yogurt sauce, or a spicy chili sauce are classic choices. A simple lemon-garlic sauce works too.
Try this doner kebab recipe tonight and bring the taste of the streets to your home. Don't forget to share your creation in the comments below!
Doner Kebab
Make juicy, spiced doner kebab at home with this easy recipe. Perfect for wraps, pitas, and bowls.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground lamb
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20)
- 1 medium onion, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup (25g) breadcrumbs
📋 Instructions
- 1Preheat and Prep — Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients until just mixed.
- 2Shape the Loaf — Transfer mixture to the baking sheet and shape into a 9×4-inch loaf, about 2 inches thick. This shape ensures even cooking.
- 3Bake the Loaf — Bake for 30-35 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is browned. Rest 10 minutes.
- 4Slice Thinly — Using a sharp knife, slice the loaf thinly (about 1/4 inch thick). Slicing across the grain gives tender pieces.
- 5Sear the Slices — Heat a skillet over medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). Add slices in a single layer and cook 2-3 minutes per side until crispy and browned.
- 6Serve Warm — Serve immediately in warm pita with lettuce, tomato, onion, and tzatziki or garlic sauce.
