Entree: Bahrain – كباب بحريني ➤ Kabab Bahraini (Grilled spiced ground meat formed on skewers in the Bahraini style)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 10 min

Additional 20 min

Total 45 min

Ingredients

- 1 lb (454 g) ground lamb
- 1 small onion, finely grated, approx. 4 oz (115 g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (approx. 6 g)
- 1/4 cup (15 g) fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp (5 g) ground cumin
- 1 tsp (2 g) ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp (3 g) baharat spice blend (or substitute 1/2 tsp allspice + 1/2 tsp black pepper)
- 1 tsp (5 g) kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil plus extra for brushing
- 8 metal or wooden skewers (soak wooden skewers if using)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. In a bowl combine ground lamb, grated onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, baharat, salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Mix gently but thoroughly, then cover and chill 20–30 minutes to firm up the mixture. Divide into 8 equal portions and press each portion firmly onto a skewer into a long flattened kebab shape.
2. Heat a grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high. Brush kebabs lightly with olive oil and grill or pan-sear 3–5 minutes per side until charred in spots and cooked through (internal temperature about 160°F / 71°C). Remove from heat, rest 2 minutes, and serve hot with lemon wedges and flatbread.