Are you looking for a dinner recipe that will take your taste buds on an exotic journey? These Georgian lamb kebabs with dill sauce offer the perfect blend of smoky, grilled lamb and fresh, herbaceous flavors.
Inspired by Georgia’s rich culinary traditions, this dish brings a unique mix of spices and textures that elevate any dinner table.
The Unique Appeal of Georgian Cuisine
Georgian cuisine is known for its vibrant use of spices, fresh herbs, and bold flavors. This recipe captures that essence with a marinade featuring cinnamon, cayenne, and paprika, giving the lamb a fragrant and slightly spicy kick.
Paired with a refreshing dill sauce, the kebabs are a harmonious balance of robust and fresh flavors. It’s a combination that feels both comforting and sophisticated, making it ideal for special dinners or weekday indulgences.
Tips for Perfecting Your Kebabs
The key to making these lamb kebabs truly shine lies in the preparation and grilling process. Here are some quick tips to ensure success:
- Marinate Thoroughly: Allow the lamb to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight. This helps the spices penetrate the meat, resulting in tender, flavorful bites.
- Grilling Technique: Use medium-high heat to achieve a nice char on the outside while keeping the lamb juicy and tender inside. Avoid overcooking, as lamb is best served medium-rare.
- Skewer Strategy: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Customizing the Recipe for Every Palate
This dinner recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences or ingredient availability:
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute lamb with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant for a plant-based version. Pair with the dill sauce for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
- Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure all spices and condiments used are certified gluten-free for a safe dining experience.
- Low-Carb Adjustments: Skip the side of bread or rice and serve the kebabs with a simple cucumber and tomato salad to keep it low-carb.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Dinner
This dish checks all the boxes for a memorable dinner recipe. It’s packed with protein, bursting with flavor, and visually stunning when served.
The vibrant red and green colors of the dill sauce and relish make it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from grilled vegetables to creamy hummus or crusty bread.
For those looking to impress with minimal effort, these Georgian lamb kebabs deliver restaurant-quality results with a straightforward process. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to wow your dinner guests with this unforgettable recipe.
Georgian Lamb Kebabs with Dill Sauce Recipe for Dinner
Equipment
- Grill or broiler
- Wooden or bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes before use)
Ingredients
For the Lamb
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon hot paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 pound boneless lamb preferably from the leg, cut into 1½-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil plus more for grilling
For the Dill Sauce
- 1 red bell pepper seeded and finely chopped
- ½ cup finely chopped cucumber
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh dill leaves
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 red or green chile seeded and minced
- 1 garlic clove minced
- Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil plus more to taste
- 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar plus more to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Lamb Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, kosher salt, ground cinnamon, paprika, cayenne, allspice, and black pepper. Add the lamb cubes and drizzle with the olive oil. Mix thoroughly to coat the lamb pieces evenly. Cover and let the lamb marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 24 hours. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Make the Dill Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped red bell pepper, cucumber, dill, cilantro, chile, and minced garlic. Season the mixture with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the olive oil and red wine vinegar, tossing to combine. Adjust the seasoning as needed with additional salt, oil, or vinegar. Set the sauce aside until ready to serve.
- Heat the Grill: Preheat your grill or broiler to a high setting to prepare for cooking the kebabs.
- Assemble the Kebabs: Thread the marinated lamb cubes onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece for even cooking. Shake off any excess marinade. Brush the lamb with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance charring during grilling.
- Cook the Lamb: Place the skewers on the hot grill or under the broiler. Cook for about 2 to 4 minutes on each side, turning as needed, until the lamb is seared on the outside and still slightly rare inside. For a more well-done result, cook slightly longer while monitoring closely.
- Serve: Arrange the lamb kebabs on a platter and serve them alongside the dill sauce for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy immediately while the kebabs are warm and flavorful.
Notes
- Adjust the spiciness by increasing or decreasing the cayenne and chile in the sauce.
- These kebabs pair wonderfully with a side of flatbread or a simple cucumber-tomato salad.
- For extra tenderness, marinate the lamb overnight in the refrigerator.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.