Iranian Shish Kebabs

Transport your taste buds to the heart of Persian cuisine with these succulent Iranian Shish Kebabs, a timeless recipe that's bursting with bold flavors and aromatic spices. Crafted with a savory blend of ground lamb (or beef), grated onion, minced garlic, and fresh parsley, these kebabs are elevated with a hint of turmeric and a touch of optional sumac for a tangy garnish. Perfectly grilled to achieve a juicy interior and charred exterior, these skewers are a crowd-pleasing option for summer cookouts or weeknight meals alike. Quick to prepare and ready in just 35 minutes, they pair wonderfully with saffron rice, warm flatbreads, or grilled vegetables. Bring authentic Persian flavors to your table with this easy and flavorful recipe!

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams Ground lamb (or ground beef)
• 1 large Onion
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 2 tablespoons Parsley
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Turmeric
• 1 teaspoon Sumac (optional, for garnish)
• 6 pieces Metal or wooden skewers

Directions

Step 1

Grate the onion into a fine pulp, then press it through a mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove excess moisture. Retain just the onion pulp.

Step 2

Finely mince the garlic and parsley, and add them to the onion pulp.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb (or beef), onion pulp, garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and turmeric. Mix thoroughly for about 5 minutes to ensure the mixture is well incorporated and sticky.

Step 4

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.

Step 6

Divide the meat mixture into 6 equal portions. Take one portion and mold it evenly around a skewer, pressing it tightly with your hands to form a long, flat sausage shape. Repeat with the remaining portions.

Step 7

Preheat a grill (or stovetop grill pan) to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 8

Grill the kebabs for about 6–7 minutes on each side, turning them carefully to ensure even cooking. They should be browned and slightly charred on the outside while remaining juicy inside.

Step 9

Transfer the kebabs to a serving platter. Optionally, sprinkle sumac over the top for an added tangy flavor.

Step 10

Serve hot with saffron rice, flatbreads, or grilled vegetables. Enjoy your Iranian Shish Kebabs!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	785.5 grams (785.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1367

Total Fat 100.70g	129%
Saturated Fat 40.20g	201%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 400mg	133%
Sodium 2724mg	118%
Total Carbohydrate 26.40g	10%
Dietary Fiber 4.80g	17%
Total Sugars 9.70g
Protein 88.90g	178%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 182mg	14%
Iron 11mg	58%
Potassium 1758mg	37%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 66.3%

Protein: 26.0%

Carbs: 7.7%