How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this dish ahead?

You can prepare the kebab mixture and the sauce a day in advance and refrigerate them separately.

Can I substitute lamb with another meat?

Yes, ground beef or chicken can be used, though flavor profiles will vary.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

While not traditional, you can substitute the meat with a plant-based protein like minced mushrooms or textured vegetable protein.

Can I freeze the kebabs?

Yes, shape them and freeze on a tray before transferring to a bag or container; they can be cooked from frozen.

Fragrant Syrian Kebab Bil Karaz with Pomegranate Sauce

Name: Fragrant Syrian Kebab Bil Karaz with Pomegranate Sauce
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 500g minced lamb; 1 small onion; 2 garlic cloves; 1 tsp ground allspice; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; Salt and pepper; 300g fresh cherries; 1 cup pomegranate juice; 3 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Chopped fresh parsley; Toasted pine nuts

Flavorful skewers with a sweet and tangy twist

A delightful Middle Eastern kebab dish that combines savory minced lamb with the sweet tartness of cherries and pomegranate, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Kebab Mixture

500g minced lamb

1 small onion

finely chopped

2 garlic cloves

minced

1 tsp ground allspice

1 tsp ground cinnamon

Salt and pepper

to taste

For the Pomegranate Sauce

300g fresh cherries

pitted and halved

1 cup pomegranate juice

3 tbsp sugar

1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Garnish

Chopped fresh parsley

Toasted pine nuts

Preparation

Preparing the Kebab Mixture

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine minced lamb, onion, garlic, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.

Chill Mixture

Mix well until fully combined and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Shape Kebabs

Shape the mixture into small sausage-like kebabs and skewer them.

Ensure the kebabs are evenly shaped for even cooking. Soak skewers in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.

Preparing the Pomegranate Sauce

Combine Sauce Ingredients

In a saucepan, combine cherries, pomegranate juice, sugar, and lemon juice.

Simmer Sauce

Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries soften and the mixture thickens slightly.

Adjust Sweetness

Adjust sugar as needed for desired sweetness.

Cooking Process

Grill Kebabs

Cook the skewers on a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.

Use medium-high heat for even cooking.

Reduce Sauce

Continue cooking the pomegranate sauce until it coats the back of a spoon.

Use medium heat to prevent burning.

Brush with Sauce

Brush the cooked kebabs with the sauce just before serving.

Plating & Serving