Middle Eastern lamb kebabs
Middle Eastern lamb kebabs are a beloved grilled dish featuring marinated cubes of lamb, typically skewered and cooked over an open flame. The marinade often includes yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, which tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. This dish is a staple across the Levant, Turkey, and the broader Middle Eastern region, often served with flatbread, rice, or fresh salads.
🍳 View the full Middle Eastern lamb kebabs recipe →
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Lamb kebabs are a high-protein, moderate-to-high-fat dish, with the fat content depending on the cut of lamb used. They provide essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, particularly B12, which supports energy metabolism. A typical serving of about 4 ounces (113 grams) of cooked lamb kebab contains roughly 250-300 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 3 g |
| Fat | 29 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Iron | 3.2 mg |
| Zinc | 5.1 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.8 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 7.2 mg |
| Phosphorus | 210 mg |
| Selenium | 28 mcg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
Per 3 kebabs (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, lamb kebabs are a centerpiece of communal dining and hospitality in the Middle East, often associated with celebrations and family gatherings. Nutritionally, the use of yogurt in the marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also adds probiotics and calcium, enhancing its digestive benefits.
