Making an Air Fryer Lamb Doner Kebab Pitta with Chips brings the delicious flavors of a classic doner kebab into your home kitchen, with a healthier twist by using the air fryer for cooking. Here’s a detailed recipe to guide you through creating this tasty dish:
Air Fryer Lamb Doner Kebab Pitta with Chips
Ingredients:
For the Lamb Doner Kebab:
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Serving:
- Pita bread or flatbreads
- Fresh salad (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions)
- Tzatziki sauce or yogurt sauce
- Lemon wedges (optional)
For the Air Fryer Chips:
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into thick fries
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lamb Doner Kebab:
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Kebab Mixture: Transfer the lamb mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape the mixture into a log shape, pressing tightly to compact the meat.
- Chill (Optional): Wrap the shaped lamb kebab tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
2. Cook the Lamb Doner Kebab:
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook Kebab: Brush the lamb kebab with olive oil. Place it in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through cooking, until the lamb is cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the lamb kebab from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice thinly against the grain.
3. Prepare the Air Fryer Chips:
- Toss with Oil and Seasoning: In a bowl, toss the peeled and cut potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using), until evenly coated.
- Air Fry Chips: Place the seasoned potato fries in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until the chips are golden and crispy.
4. Assemble the Doner Kebab Pitta:
- Warm Pitta Bread: Heat pita bread or flatbreads in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed and slightly toasted.
- Assemble: Fill each warmed pita with slices of the air-fried lamb doner kebab, fresh salad ingredients (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions), and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce or yogurt sauce.
- Serve: Serve the Lamb Doner Kebab Pitta alongside the air fryer chips. Optionally, squeeze a lemon wedge over the kebab before serving for extra zestiness.
Tips for Success:
- Compact Shape: Ensure the lamb kebab mixture is tightly packed to hold its shape during cooking.
- Crispy Chips: Shake the air fryer basket periodically to ensure even cooking and crispy chips.
- Customize: Adjust the spices and seasonings in the lamb mixture according to your taste preference.
Why This Recipe is Special:
Air Fryer Lamb Doner Kebab Pitta with Chips offers a healthier and homemade version of a favorite street food dish. The lamb kebab is juicy and flavorful, complemented by fresh salad and creamy tzatziki sauce, all wrapped in warm pita bread. The air fryer chips provide a crispy and satisfying side that completes the meal. This recipe allows you to enjoy the authentic flavors of a doner kebab at home, with the convenience and health benefits of air frying.
Prepare this dish for a delicious dinner or casual gathering, and enjoy the flavors of Mediterranean-inspired street food without leaving your kitchen. It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike!