Air Fryer Lamb Kebabs: Quick, Easy, Delicious

Lamb kebabs are a popular dish in many parts of the world, from the Middle East to China. They are typically made with ground lamb, shaped into sausages or patties, and grilled or fried. But how long do they take to cook in an air fryer?

The cooking time for lamb kebabs in an air fryer can vary depending on the size of the kebabs and the specific air fryer model. However, on average, they take around 15 to 20 minutes to cook thoroughly. For example, one recipe recommends cooking lamb kofta kebabs in the air fryer for 16 minutes, while another suggests cooking lamb skewers for 10 minutes.

It's important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the desired level of doneness. Some people prefer their lamb kebabs to be slightly pink in the middle, while others prefer them well-done. Adjusting the cooking time accordingly will ensure that the lamb kebabs are cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Additionally, it's a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the kebabs. The USDA recommends cooking ground lamb to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure food safety.

Lamb kebab ingredients and alternatives

Ingredients

The ingredients for lamb kebabs vary depending on the type of kebab and the region they originate from. However, some common ingredients include:

• Lamb (leg, shoulder, or neck)
• Olive oil
• Onions
• Garlic
• Spices (cumin, cardamom, nutmeg, allspice, paprika, cayenne, cinnamon, etc.)
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon juice and zest
• Parsley
• Mint
• Coriander
• Chilli peppers
• Turmeric

Alternatives

While lamb is the traditional meat of choice for kebabs, you can also use other types of meat such as:

• Beef
• Chicken
• Goat
• Fish

Additionally, you can experiment with different combinations of spices and herbs to create unique flavour profiles for your kebabs. For example, you could try using:

• Moroccan spices
• Indian spices (garam masala, ginger)
• Greek spices and herbs (mint, dill)
• Middle Eastern spices (harissa, sumac)
• Chinese spices (Sichuan peppercorn, Chinese chilli powder)

How to prepare the lamb kebab mix

To prepare the lamb kebab mix, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Ground lamb
• Olive oil or peanut oil/vegetable oil
• Parsley
• Minced garlic
• Spices (such as chilli flakes, mixed spice, mixed herbs, tandoori seasoning, cumin powder, Chinese chilli powder, or a kebab spice mix)
• Salt
• Soy sauce
• Cornstarch
• Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
• Onion (optional)

You can also add other herbs and spices, such as fresh mint or cilantro, or spice blends like garam masala or cumin.

Once you have gathered your ingredients, here are the steps to prepare the lamb kebab mix:

• Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl or stand mixer.
• Mix the ingredients together with your hands or a stand mixer until well combined.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture sit in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld. You can also prepare the mixture ahead of time and leave it in the fridge for a day or two until you're ready to cook.

That's it! Your lamb kebab mix is now ready to be shaped and cooked.

How to shape the lamb kebabs

To shape the lamb kebabs, you can follow these steps:

Firstly, you will need to prepare your chosen ingredients and mix them together in a bowl. This will typically include ground lamb, spices, and sometimes an additional binding agent such as egg or breadcrumbs. You can also add in some diced onion, peppers, or other vegetables if you wish.

Next, you will want to form the mixture into evenly-sized, oblong shapes, similar to sausages. You can do this by hand, dividing the mixture into equal portions and rolling them between your palms. Aim for a compact shape to prevent the kebabs from falling apart during cooking.

If you are using skewers, carefully thread the shaped lamb mixture onto the skewers. If not, simply place the shaped lamb kebabs directly into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching each other and have space to cook without sticking.

Finally, cook your lamb kebabs according to your chosen recipe's instructions, and enjoy!

How long to cook lamb kebabs in an air fryer

Cooking lamb kebabs in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a tasty, healthy meal. The cooking time will depend on the size of your koftas or kebabs, and whether you are using skewers or not. Here is a step-by-step guide to cooking lamb kebabs in an air fryer, with timings included.

Preparation

Firstly, you will need to prepare your lamb kebabs. You can do this by blending your chosen ingredients in a stand mixer. A typical mixture might include ground lamb, parsley, garlic, and a spice mix. You can also add breadcrumbs or soaked bread to help bind the mixture. Once combined, divide the mixture into four to six portions and shape them into long "sausages". If you are using skewers, soak them in water for around 10 minutes before inserting them into the kebabs. This will prevent them from burning in the air fryer.

Cooking

Place your lamb kebabs in the air fryer basket and cook at a temperature of between 360-400°F (180-200°C). For medium-sized koftas, cook for 16 minutes, turning them after 8 minutes to ensure even cooking. If you are cooking your kebabs from frozen, you will need to allow a little more time, around 20-30 minutes in total. You can also cook your kebabs without skewers. Simply shape the mixture into meatballs or long sausage shapes and place them directly into the air fryer basket.

Checking for Doneness

To check that your lamb kebabs are cooked, use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 145-160°F (71-72°C). This is the temperature at which lamb is considered safe to eat.

Serving

Lamb kebabs are best served hot and can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a snack, or a main course. They go well with flatbreads, dips, and sides such as sweet potato fries or a green salad.

Customisation

Feel free to experiment with different combinations of herbs and spices to find your favourite flavour profile. You can also try using different types of meat, such as beef, chicken, or a mixture of lamb and beef.

How to serve lamb kebabs

Lamb kebabs are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

As a Main Course

You can serve lamb kebabs as the star of the meal, paired with a variety of side dishes. Some classic pairings include:

• French fries – The crispiness and fluffiness of fries provide a delightful contrast to the juicy lamb kebabs.
• Baked potatoes – Their mild flavour and soft texture balance the richness of the lamb. Load them with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or chives to make it even more indulgent.
• Rice – Brown rice, in particular, offers a nutty flavour that complements the savouriness of the lamb. You can also try couscous or quinoa salads with veggies and vinaigrette for a lighter option.
• Vegetables – Grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and tomatoes add a smoky sweetness to the plate. Alternatively, serve them with a tangy herb salad to cut through the richness of the lamb.
• Flatbreads – Soft, warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up dips and complements the smoky flavour of the kebabs.
• Dips and Sauces – Tzatziki, a Greek yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and mint, adds a refreshing tang to the plate. Hummus, with its creamy and nutty flavour, is another excellent dip to serve alongside lamb kebabs.

As an Appetizer or Snack

Lamb kebabs also make for a tasty starter or snack. Here are some ideas to serve them in smaller portions:

• On a Bed of Hummus – Spread some hummus on a plate and place the lamb kebabs on top. This makes for a delicious and indulgent bite-sized treat.
• With Flatbreads – Serve the lamb kebabs with warm pita bread or naan, and let your guests tear off pieces to enjoy with the kebabs.
• As a Kebab Plate – Offer a selection of lamb kebabs, flatbreads, dips like tzatziki and hummus, and a simple salad for a more substantial appetizer.

Cultural Variations

Lamb kebabs are enjoyed in various cultures, each with its unique serving suggestions:

• Indian – Enjoy lamb kebabs with garlic naan, tzatziki, and a cucumber tomato salad.
• Middle Eastern – Pair lamb kebabs with a tangy herb salad, dilled yogurt sauce, and grilled veggies.
• Chinese – Chinese lamb skewers (chuan) are often served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a main course. They are typically heavily seasoned with cumin powder and Chinese chili powder.
• Greek – A Greek salad, with its tangy feta, ripe tomatoes, and crisp cucumbers, pairs well with lamb kebabs. Olives add a nice briny touch that works well with the gamey flavour of the lamb.

Frequently asked questions