Adana Kebab Recipe (Authentic Turkish Spicy Grilled Kebab)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marination Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Adana Kebab is one of the most famous grilled dishes from , a vibrant culinary region in . This flavorful kebab is traditionally made with finely minced lamb mixed with red pepper flakes and spices, then shaped onto wide skewers and grilled over charcoal.
Known for its slightly spicy taste and smoky aroma, Adana Kebab is commonly served with flatbread, grilled vegetables, and fresh salads. It is a popular street food and restaurant favorite across Turkey and the Middle East.
Ingredients
For the Kebab
- 500 g ground lamb (or beef-lamb mix)
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Serving
- Lavash or pita bread
- Grilled tomatoes
- Grilled green peppers
- Sliced onions with parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, grated onion, garlic, salt, paprika, red pepper flakes, cumin, black pepper, and olive oil. Mix thoroughly until the spices are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Chill the Mixture
Cover the mixture and refrigerate for about 1 hour. This helps the meat firm up and improves the flavor.
Step 3: Shape the Kebabs
Divide the mixture into equal portions. Press each portion firmly around flat metal skewers, shaping them into long kebabs.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Heat a charcoal grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Step 5: Grill the Kebabs
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until the kebabs are browned and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the hot kebabs with lavash bread, grilled vegetables, sliced onions, and fresh lemon wedges.
Tips for Perfect Adana Kebab
Use lamb for authentic flavor
Traditional Adana kebabs are made with lamb, which gives them a rich taste.
Finely mince the meat
A smooth meat texture helps the kebabs hold together on skewers.
Chill before grilling
Refrigerating the mixture helps the kebabs keep their shape.
Use charcoal if possible
Charcoal grilling provides the classic smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Adana Kebab is traditionally served with:
- Lavash or pita bread
- Grilled tomatoes and peppers
- Turkish onion salad
- Yogurt or garlic sauce
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Adana Kebab?
Adana Kebab is a traditional Turkish grilled kebab made with spiced minced lamb shaped onto skewers and grilled over charcoal.
Why is Adana Kebab spicy?
The dish traditionally includes red pepper flakes, which give it a mild to moderate spiciness.
Can I use beef instead of lamb?
Yes. Many home cooks use a mixture of beef and lamb if pure lamb is unavailable.
Can Adana Kebab be cooked without a grill?
Yes. You can cook it in a grill pan, oven, or skillet, though grilling gives the best flavor.
How long can Adana Kebab be stored?
Cooked kebabs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
Adana Kebab is a delicious and aromatic grilled dish that perfectly represents Turkish cuisine. Its combination of spiced meat, smoky flavor, and simple fresh accompaniments makes it an irresistible meal for any occasion.
Whether served at a barbecue or as a quick dinner, this authentic Adana Kebab recipe brings the bold flavors of Turkey right into your kitchen.
Similar Recipes
- Doner Kebab – Turkish seasoned meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in flatbread.
- Shish Tawook – Middle Eastern yogurt-marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection.
- Koobideh Kebab – Persian ground meat kebabs grilled on skewers.
- Joojeh Kebab – Persian saffron-marinated chicken kebabs.
- Shishlik – Tender grilled lamb skewers popular in Persian and Central Asian cuisine.

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