Lebanese Turkey Kebabs with Tahini Sauce

Lebanese Turkey Kebabs with Tahini Sauce are a flavorful and healthy alternative to traditional kebabs, combining lean ground turkey with aromatic spices and a creamy, tangy tahini sauce. These kebabs are perfect for a weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests at a gathering. The ground turkey mixture is seasoned with cumin, paprika, and fresh parsley, providing a savory and fragrant base, while the tahini sauce adds a rich, nutty finish that takes the dish to the next level. Whether you serve them with a side of pita, over rice, or with a fresh salad, these kebabs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a quick cooking time of around 12 minutes, these kebabs are as easy to make as they are delicious. The combination of grilled turkey and creamy tahini sauce offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lebanese Turkey Kebabs with Tahini Sauce are packed with flavor and nutrition, making them an excellent choice for a wholesome meal. The ground turkey provides a lean source of protein, while the blend of spices like cumin and paprika creates a savory depth of flavor. The fresh parsley adds brightness and color to the kebabs, and the tahini sauce offers a rich and creamy complement to the dish. This recipe is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to more elaborate gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work.

Ingredients

For the Kebabs:

• Ground turkey
• Small onion, grated
• Garlic, minced
• Breadcrumbs
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Wooden skewers

For the Tahini Sauce:

• Tahini
• Water
• Lemon juice
• Garlic, minced
• Salt to taste

Variations

1. Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers into the turkey mixture for added flavor and texture.
2. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped fresh chili to the turkey mixture or the tahini sauce for an extra burst of heat.
3. Herb Twist: Experiment with other herbs like mint or cilantro to add a refreshing note to the kebabs.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Serve the kebabs with grilled vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers for a more complete meal.
5. Low-Carb Option: Replace breadcrumbs with ground almonds or almond flour to make the dish keto-friendly.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Kebabs

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 2: Shape the Kebabs

Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each portion onto a wooden skewer. Press gently to ensure the kebabs hold together as they cook.

Step 3: Grill the Kebabs

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kebabs are cooked through and browned on the outside.

Step 4: Make the Tahini Sauce

While the kebabs are cooking, whisk together the tahini, water, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed, depending on your desired thickness.

Step 5: Serve

Once the kebabs are cooked, remove them from the skewers and serve them hot with the tahini sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Keep the Skewers Moist: Soak the wooden skewers in water for 20-30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning on the grill.
2. Don’t Overwork the Meat: Mix the turkey mixture gently to avoid making the kebabs tough.
3. Grill at the Right Temperature: Make sure the grill is preheated to medium heat to ensure the kebabs cook evenly without burning.
4. Serve with Pita or Rice: These kebabs pair wonderfully with pita bread or over a bed of fluffy rice to make a complete meal.
5. Make Extra Sauce: The tahini sauce is so delicious, you may want to make extra to drizzle over salads or use as a dip for other dishes.

How to Serve

Lebanese Turkey Kebabs with Tahini Sauce are perfect served with fresh pita bread, a side of hummus, or a simple salad of cucumber, tomato, and red onion. You can also serve them over rice or couscous for a more filling meal. These kebabs are ideal for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner and can be paired with a light white wine or iced tea for a refreshing touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover kebabs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or on the grill to preserve their texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the raw turkey kebabs before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the kebabs to a freezer bag or container. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then grill as usual.

Reheating

To reheat leftover kebabs, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through. If you’re reheating in the oven, cover the kebabs with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken can be used as a substitute for ground turkey.

2. Can I make the kebabs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the kebabs and refrigerate them until ready to grill. They can be stored raw for up to 24 hours.

3. What can I serve with these kebabs?

These kebabs pair well with rice, couscous, tabbouleh, or a side of roasted vegetables.

4. Can I make the tahini sauce without garlic?

Yes, you can omit the garlic from the tahini sauce if you prefer a milder flavor.

5. Can I grill the kebabs indoors?

Yes, if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or cook the kebabs under the broiler in your oven.

6. How do I prevent the kebabs from falling apart on the grill?

Make sure to press the turkey mixture firmly onto the skewers to help the kebabs hold together while grilling.

7. Can I use store-bought tahini sauce?

Yes, you can use pre-made tahini sauce if you’re short on time, but homemade tahini sauce adds a fresher, more vibrant flavor.

8. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the turkey mixture or the tahini sauce for a spicy kick.

9. How can I adjust the consistency of the tahini sauce?

If the sauce is too thick, add more water to reach your desired consistency.

10. Can I make the kebabs without skewers?

Yes, you can form the turkey mixture into patties and cook them on the grill or in a skillet instead of using skewers.

Conclusion

Lebanese Turkey Kebabs with Tahini Sauce are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines tender turkey kebabs with the creamy richness of tahini sauce. The spices and fresh herbs in the kebabs bring depth of flavor, while the tahini sauce adds a smooth, nutty finish. Whether served with pita, rice, or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to become a favorite for its simplicity, taste, and versatility. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, these kebabs are a delicious way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors at home.

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