İskender Kebap is a Turkish culinary masterpiece with succulent slices of lamb or beef, rich tomato sauce, and a dollop of creamy yogurt. The meat is tender and aromatic, layered over a bed of pita, then lavished with a golden butter sauce that glistens under the warm, inviting lights of a traditional Turkish restaurant. It’s not just a meal; it represents a cultural heritage.
Recipe
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb of thinly sliced beef or lamb
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 cups of plain tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Instructions:
- Simmer the tomato sauce with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper for 10 minutes.
- Toast pita bread squares until crispy.
- Brown the meat slices in a skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Melt butter until golden brown.
- Assemble by layering bread, meat, sauce, and butter.
- Add a side of Greek yogurt and garnish with parsley.
- Serve warm.
Culture and History
İskender Kebap was created by İskender Efendi, who lived in Bursa, Turkey. He had the ingenious idea to roast meat vertically, allowing the fat to drip and baste the meat, ensuring every slice was juicy and flavorful. Today, İskender Kebap is a beloved dish, often selected for special occasions or as a treat, reflecting its relative high cost in Turkish restaurants. Prices vary, but you can expect to pay between $10 and $20 USD in Turkey for a plate of this delicacy.
The dish is typically served in sit-down restaurants, where the atmosphere enhances the experience. It has evolved over time, with some variations including different meats or serving styles, but the essence remains the same. Now, consider the serving ritual. İskender Kebap is traditionally served over pita bread, absorbing the flavors of the tomato sauce and the melted sheep butter. The yogurt on the side offers a cool, tangy contrast to the spices of the dish. It’s a blend of flavors that has been perfected over more than a century. When you make İskender Kebap at home with the recipe provided, remember that you’re creating a piece of culinary art cherished for generations. Enjoy the process and, more importantly, enjoy every bite of this Turkish treasure.
