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Cağ Kebabı – Horizontal Roasted Lamb Kebab

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CAG KEBABI is a traditional Turkish horizontal roasted lamb kebab known for its tender, juicy slices of marinated lamb slow-cooked over charcoal. This dish features thinly sliced lamb leg marinated in a flavorful mixture of onion juice, yogurt, salt, and black pepper, then tightly stacked on a horizontal skewer. Slowly roasted while rotating over charcoal heat, the kebab develops a smoky aroma and rich flavor with each outer layer sliced off and served fresh. Typically enjoyed with flatbread, this kebab is a perfect blend of tradition and taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients for Cag Kebabi

  • 2 lbs lamb leg, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/4 cup onion juice (freshly extracted)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Flatbread, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Lamb: Thinly slice the lamb leg against the grain to ensure tenderness during cooking. This helps the meat absorb the marinade and cook evenly.
  2. Marinate the Meat: In a bowl, combine the sliced lamb with onion juice, yogurt, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat each piece thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
  3. Skewer the Meat: After marinating, tightly stack the lamb slices onto a horizontal skewer, compressing the layers firmly to hold together when cooking.
  4. Slow Roast over Charcoal: Place the skewered meat on a horizontal rotisserie over charcoal heat. Slowly rotate the kebab to ensure even cooking and a smoky flavor. The slow roasting preserves tenderness and enhances aroma.
  5. Slice and Serve: As the outer layers cook and brown, slice them off immediately to serve. Continue roasting the remaining meat, repeating the slicing process. Serve the freshly sliced lamb kebab immediately with warm flatbread.

Notes

  • Ensure the lamb leg is sliced very thin to maximize tenderness and marinating absorption.
  • Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderizes the lamb.
  • Maintain a low, steady charcoal heat for slow roasting to preserve juiciness and aroma.
  • Slice off cooked layers thinly and serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
  • This recipe replicates the traditional method of horizontal rotisserie roasting, important for authentic taste.

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/cag-kebab-horizontal-roasted-lamb-kebab/