Tepsi Kebab is a traditional Turkish dish, renowned for its rich flavors and ease of preparation. Originating from the southeastern regions of Turkey, this oven-baked kebab is a staple in Turkish cuisine. It’s typically made with ground lamb or beef and an array of aromatic spices, all cooked together in one pan, hence the name “Tepsi” which means tray or pan in Turkish.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onions, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly. Add salt to taste.
Grease a baking tray with a bit of olive oil.
Take small portions of the meat mixture and shape them into patties or elongated kebabs. Arrange them on the greased tray.
Place the sliced tomatoes and green bell peppers between the meat pieces.
Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the kebabs are well cooked and slightly browned on top.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Tepsi Kebab can be enjoyed with rice, flatbread, or a simple salad.
This Tepsi Kebab recipe brings the authentic flavors of Turkish cuisine to your kitchen, combining simplicity with rich, aromatic spices for a delightful meal experience.
Choice of Meat: Using a mix of lamb and beef provides a balance of flavor and fat, but you can use either based on preference.
Marination Time: For deeper flavor, let the meat marinate with the spices in the fridge for an hour before cooking.
Consistent Kebab Size: Ensure that all kebabs are of the same size and thickness for even cooking.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or replace vegetables based on availability and preference. Eggplants and potatoes also work well in this dish.
Using a Broiler: To get a more charred and authentic taste, broil the kebabs for the last few minutes of cooking.
Fat Content: If using lean meat, consider adding a bit of olive oil or grated fat into the mixture to keep the kebabs moist.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the tray for an aromatic twist.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with flatbread to soak up the juices and a side of yogurt or a light cucumber salad.
Leftovers: Leftover Tepsi Kebab can be refrigerated and used in sandwiches or wraps the next day.
Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
Presentation: For a visually appealing presentation, garnish with lemon slices and a sprinkle of sumac.
Meal Prepping: This dish is great for meal prepping as it stores well and the flavors intensify over time.