Şiş Kebab

🍢Şiş Kebab Recipe from North Cyprus – A Traditional Cypriot Delight

When it comes to Cypriot cuisine, few dishes are as iconic and loved as the Şiş Kebab. Known for its smoky aroma, tender meat, and perfect seasoning, this dish has been a staple of North Cyprus for generations.

Whether enjoyed at a family gathering, a seaside taverna, or during festive celebrations, Cypriot Şiş Kebab captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking – fresh, simple, and bursting with flavour.
In this blog, we’ll explore the origins of Şiş Kebab in North Cyprus, provide a step-by-step traditional recipe, and share tips on how to make the perfect kebab at home.
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🏛️The History of Şiş Kebab in North Cyprus

The word “şiş” simply means “skewer” in Turkish, and kebab refers to grilled meat. This dish has deep roots in Ottoman and Middle Eastern cuisine, but in North Cyprus, it has developed its own unique identity. Traditionally cooked over charcoal, the meat is marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, reflecting the island’s rich agricultural produce.

Unlike the popular doner kebab, which is cooked on a vertical rotisserie, Şiş Kebab is prepared by skewering chunks of meat (usually lamb, beef, or chicken) and grilling them slowly over hot coals. Served with warm flatbread, grilled vegetables, and meze, it is a dish that embodies Cypriot hospitality and tradition.
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🥗Ingredients for Authentic Cypriot Şiş Kebab

To prepare this North Cypriot Şiş Kebab recipe, you’ll need:
• 500g lamb (leg or shoulder, cubed) – or chicken breast/thigh for variation
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes to avoid burning)

Optional for serving:
• Fresh flatbread or pita
• Grilled tomatoes, peppers, and onions
• A side of Cacık (Cypriot tzatziki) or salad
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👨‍🍳Step-by-Step Recipe for Şiş Kebab

🥣 Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

🥩 Marinate the Meat
Add the cubed lamb (or chicken) into the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, ideally overnight for maximum flavour.

🍢 Prepare the Skewers
Thread the meat onto skewers, alternating with vegetables if you like (onions, peppers, or tomatoes work beautifully).

♨️ Grill the Kebab
Heat a charcoal or gas grill until hot. Cook the skewers over medium-high heat, turning regularly, until the meat is charred on the outside and tender inside (about 10–12 minutes).

🍽️ Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately with flatbread, salad, and your choice of Cypriot meze.
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📝 Tips for the Perfect North Cypriot Şiş Kebab

• Charcoal grilling is key to achieving the authentic smoky flavour.
• Don’t overcrowd the skewers – leave a little space between pieces for even cooking.
• Allow the meat to rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy.
• Pair with a glass of rakı, Cyprus’s traditional anise-flavoured spirit, for a true local experience.
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😋 Why Try Şiş Kebab in North Cyprus?

Eating Şiş Kebab in North Cyprus is more than just enjoying a meal – it’s experiencing a tradition. From beachside barbecues to village festivals, kebabs are at the heart of Cypriot food culture. Locals take pride in their recipes, often passed down through generations, with small variations in spices and marinades that make each version unique.
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🌸 Final Thoughts

The Şiş Kebab recipe from North Cyprus is simple yet incredibly satisfying. With just a few fresh ingredients and a good grill, you can recreate the authentic flavours of Cypriot cuisine in your own home. Whether you’re a fan of lamb, beef, or chicken, this dish never fails to impress.

So next time you’re craving a taste of the Mediterranean, try making your own Cypriot Şiş Kebab – and enjoy a flavourful journey to the sun-soaked island of Cyprus.