Iskender Turkish Kebab

What is iskender kababa?  

İskender kebab is a traditional Turkish dish. It is named after its inventor, İskender Efendi, who created it in the late 19th century in Bursa, Turkey. İskender kebab is a type of döner kebab, which consists of thin slices of tender and flavorful meat (traditionally lamb) cooked on a vertical rotisserie. 

It is a delicious and tasty meal prepared  by  tender, thinly sliced meat (lamb) . The meat is marinated with spices, cooked in a low flame, and served on a bed of pita bread or lavash. A rich tomato-based sauce and melted butter are generously poured over the meat. Additionally, the dish is traditionally accompanied by yogurt, grilled tomatoes, and peppers. The  combination of juicy  meat, flavorful sauce, and tangy yogurt has made İskender kebab a beloved specialty of Turkish cuisine.

How to make iskender kabab?

I am going to share the decilicious recipe of famous Turkish iskender kabab  must follow the step carefully and make a delicious food in a easy way . 

This is the a recipe for Iskender Kebab, a delicious Turkish dish:

Recipe card: 

For the meat 

•  500 grams (1 lb) of lamb or beef döner kebab meat

• 4-6 pieces of pita bread

•  4 tablespoons of butter

• 2 cups of tomato sauce

• 1 cup of plain yogurt

•  2 cloves of garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup of olive oil

• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste

•  1 tablespoon of lemon juice

•  1 teaspoon of dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin

•  1 teaspoon of paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder

•  Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

•  Fresh Coriander  

• Green chili

• Tomatoes 

Method:

1. In a bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients: olive oil, tomato paste, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix them.

2. Add the döner kebab meat to the marinade and toss until the meat is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator for better flavor.

3. Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium flame. Cook the marinated döner kebab meat until the meat becomes golden brown and cooked well. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.

5. Preheat your oven to a low heat.

6. Cut the pita bread into small triangular pieces and arrange them on a baking sheet. Place the baking sheet under the broiler for a few minutes until the pita bread is toasted and crispy. Cook carefully to prevent it from burning.

7. In a separate saucepan, warm the tomato sauce over low heat.

8. In a bowl, mix the plain yogurt with minced garlic and a pinch of salt.

9. Assemble the dish by placing the toasted pita bread on a serving platter. Arrange the cooked döner kebab meat on top of the pita bread.

10.  Add the melted butter over the meat and bread.

11. Pour the warm tomato sauce over the meat and bread, and let it soak in.

12. Serve the Iskender Kebab with yogurt on the side.

13. Garnish with fresh Coriander leaves and fresh green chili, if desired.

Now you can enjoy it at home.

Healthy tips 

 

Is iskender kabab healthy or unhealthy?

 

Skender kabab is a famous Turkish dish that is made up of grilled meat, usually lamb or beef, served with vegetables and yogurt sauce, often accompanied by bread or rice.  the healthiness of skender kabab depends on various factors such as the ingredients used, cooking methods, portion sizes, and individual dietary needs.

In general, Skender kabab can be a healthy choice if prepared and consumed in a balanced way. There is the reason why we considered the iskender kabab healthy diet.

1. protein: Iskender kabab is made with grilled meat, which provides a good source of protein. Lean cuts of meat can be a part of a healthy diet, as protein is essential for muscle development and repair.

2. Vegetables: Iskander kabab ingredients includes vegetables such as capsicum, onions, and tomatoes. These vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish, contributing to its overall nutritional value.

3. Cooking methods: Grilling is generally considered a healthier cooking method compared to frying, as it requires less oil. Grilling allows excess fat to drip away from the meat, reducing the overall calorie content.

4. Portion sizes: Like any meal, portion control is important. Pay attention to your serving sizes to ensure you're not consuming excessive calories.

5. Accompaniments: The choice of accompaniments, such as bread or rice, impacts the overall healthiness of the meal. Opting for whole-grain bread or brown rice can provide more fiber and nutrients compared to refined options.

However,  iskender kabab may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with specific dietary restrictions or health conditions. If you have concerns about the dish's nutritional content or if you have any dietary requirements, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.