SAEDNEWS: Doner kebab, also known as Turkish kebab, is a popular dish loved worldwide. With its unforgettable flavor and unique style, this delicious kebab satisfies every taste and is a favorite choice for food lovers.
According to Saed News’ culinary section, the history of this dish dates back to the time when fire was discovered. In fact, kebab refers to meat that is cooked directly over a flame. Early humans consumed hunted meat raw, but after discovering fire, cooking methods changed. By combining meat with spices and vegetables, the final dish evolved into a more flavorful and enjoyable meal.
Most kebabs are prepared using lamb or beef mixed with spices and onions. Turkish kebab, also known as doner kebab, literally means “rotating kebab” or “turning kebab.” Its origins can be traced back to the city of Bursa in southern Istanbul. Traditionally, this dish was cooked horizontally over charcoal before its modern vertical style became popular.
Ingredient | Required Amount |
|---|---|
Chicken or red meat | 600 grams |
Vegetable oil | 4 tablespoons |
Mushrooms | 200 grams |
Garlic | 1 clove |
Bell pepper | 1 piece |
Onions | 3 medium-sized |
Thyme | Half a teaspoon |
Butter | 2 tablespoons |
Salt and pepper | As needed |
How to Prepare Turkish Kebab (Doner Kebab)
Doner kebab and Turkish kebab sandwiches originated in Turkey and are considered among the most flavorful dishes made with red meat. This kebab is one of the most popular foods in Turkey and has crossed international borders, becoming well-known and loved around the world. Many restaurants and food companies specialize in preparing and serving Turkish kebab because of its unique taste and widespread popularity.
Here is the step-by-step method for preparing homemade doner kebab:
To make a doner kebab sandwich, first choose high-quality, lean meat. You can use beef tenderloin, beef sirloin, or chicken breast. Slice the meat into very thin pieces.
Cutting soft meat into thin slices can be difficult. A useful method is to freeze the meat slightly before slicing. After washing and drying the meat, place it inside a freezer bag and freeze it for about 30 minutes to one hour until it becomes partially frozen. Remove it from the freezer and use a sharp knife to cut it into very thin slices. Place the slices in a large bowl.
Peel, wash, and slice the onions. Add them to the meat along with vegetable oil, black pepper, salt, and thyme.
Mix and knead all the ingredients well so that the spices spread evenly and flavor every piece of meat.
Depending on your taste, you can add a little lemon juice to the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the meat rest in the refrigerator for about two hours so it absorbs the flavors.
Leave the butter at room temperature until it softens. Wash and dry the mushrooms completely. Peel the remaining onions and slice them along with the bell pepper. Cut the mushrooms and peppers into thin slices or strips and set them aside.
Remove the marinated meat from the refrigerator. Melt the butter in a large pan over low heat, add the meat, and stir continuously until it is cooked thoroughly and lightly browned.
Avoid frying the meat over high heat because it may prevent it from cooking properly inside. Add the bell pepper and sauté it with the meat for about five minutes. Then add the onions and mushrooms. Continue stirring until all ingredients become soft and fully cooked.
Remove the cooked meat and vegetables from the heat. Hollow out a baguette sandwich roll and add tomato sauce, lettuce, pickles, and mayonnaise if desired. Add chopped parsley and fill the bread with the prepared Turkish kebab mixture.

Your homemade Turkish kebab is now ready to enjoy!
Traditionally, doner kebab in Turkey is served with pita bread, chopped onions, and parsley. However, it is also delicious when served in a baguette or sandwich roll.
Doner Kebab: A Taste to Remember
In this article, we explored how to prepare a delicious doner kebab sandwich. It is also possible to make this dish using ground meat. Simply cook and brown the minced meat well, then serve it with parsley, sliced onions, and either pita bread or baguette.
Do you prefer Turkish kebab made with beef or chicken? What is the biggest challenge you face when preparing it at home? Does the meat become too tough, or do the mushrooms release too much water? Share your experience with us in the comments!