Turkish-style lamb

Turkish-style lamb

Enjoy a vibrant Turkish-style lamb dish featuring tender grilled lamb smothered in a fragrant, spiced yogurt sauce and served with fresh salad and warm pita bread. This recipe combines bold flavors and simple ingredients for a delightful meal.

Lamb

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

10 min

Servings

4

Turkish-style lamb is a beloved dish known for its rich blend of spices and the creamy tanginess of yogurt, which beautifully complements the natural flavors of the lamb. This particular recipe showcases the classic technique of grilling the lamb to a perfect rare finish before finishing it with a seasoned yogurt topping that blisters slightly on the grill, adding an extra depth of flavor and texture. Originating from the rich culinary traditions of Turkey, this dish often brings to mind vibrant street food scenes or family gatherings where fresh, bold flavors come together effortlessly. The use of fresh mint and oregano in the yogurt reflects the herbaceous notes typical in Turkish cuisine, while the layering of crisp iceberg lettuce and sharp red onion inside warm pita bread makes for a satisfying bite. Pair this dish with a light cucumber and tomato salad or a refreshing glass of Turkish ayran (a salty yogurt drink) to complement the hearty flavors. It's perfect for a casual dinner or a festive lunch, inviting everyone to build their own pita wraps and enjoy the tangy, aromatic lamb to its fullest.

Ingredients

  • 4 Lamb Leg
  • 2 tsp Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • Bunch Mint
  • 300 g Yogurt
  • 4 Pita Bread
  • 0.5 Iceberg Lettuce
  • 1 sliced Red Onions
  • 1 Lemon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your grill to high heat, ensuring it's hot enough to sear the lamb beautifully. Generously season the lamb leg pieces, then place them on the grill. Cook each side for about 2 minutes until they develop a lovely browned crust while remaining very rare inside. While the lamb is grilling, stir together your chosen seasoning, dried oregano, and half of the fresh mint into one of the yogurt tubs. Once the lamb has been browned, liberally smother this herbed yogurt mixture over the meat. Return the lamb to the grill and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the yogurt to blister enticingly and the meat to reach your preferred doneness—perfectly tender and flavorful. Step 2: Remove the lamb from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes; this helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat juicy. Meanwhile, toast your pita breads on the grill or in a toaster until warm and slightly crisp. Prepare the salad by shredding the iceberg lettuce and slicing the red onions thinly for a mild bite that will balance the rich lamb. Mix the remaining fresh mint into the second tub of yogurt to create a cool, refreshing sauce. Slice the rested lamb thickly and assemble your pitta pockets by layering the meat, crisp lettuce, red onions, and a generous dollop of the minted yogurt. For an extra pop of freshness, squeeze some lemon juice over the filling before tucking in. Tips: - Keep an eye on the lamb as it grills; cooking times can vary based on grill heat and thickness of the meat. - For an added smoky flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the yogurt mixture. - Serving this dish with a side of grilled vegetables or a simple tomato salad pairs exceptionally well.

Quick Info

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
10 min
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4