How to Make Lamb Kebabs for Kwanzaa

Most of the foods that are served during a Kwanzaa feast can be traced back to those that were and are found in Africa. For centuries, Africans have tended sheep, so lamb is one of the meats that will often find its way onto the African table. Serving lamb kebabs for Kwanzaa is a great way to acknowledge that connection.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Outdoor BBQ grill or indoor grill pan
• 3 tbsp. of honey
• 6 to 8 skewers
• 2-to-3 lb. leg of lamb that has been cut into 1 1/4-inch cubes
• Large sealable baggie
• Large bowl
• 4 bell peppers (any colors) cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 large onion cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3/4 cups of a garlic and herb marinade (make your own or buy a pre-made one)
• Pita bread (optional)
• 3 tbsp. of finely chopped mint leaves

Make Lamb Kebabs for Kwanzaa

1. Place the lamb in a plastic bag and pour in the marinade along with the honey and the mint leaves. Take out excess air and then seal bag and refrigerate the lamb for 4 to 8 hours, so that the meat absorbs all the flavors.

2. Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Place the bell peppers in the water for about 30 seconds and then remove and drain.

3. Combine the still warm peppers and the remainder of the marinade in a bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate for 4 to 8 hours in the refrigerator.

4. Prepare your grill (either outside or inside), by pre-heating and spraying with non-stick spray or rubbing with oil.

5. Remove the marinated meat and vegetables from the refrigerator and begin to place them on the skewers, alternating the lamb with the bell peppers and the onions.

6. Grill the kebabs for 12 to 14 minutes, turning them so that they cook evenly.

Make a Simple Yogurt Sauce

7. Combine 1/2 cup of plain yogurt, 1/2 cup of sour cream , 1 tbsp. of lemon juice, 1 tbsp. of finely minced mint leaves and 1 tbsp. of minced dill in a bowl.

8. Serve with cooked lamb chilled or at room temperature.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your vegetables are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
• Once the lamb kebabs are cooked, they can be eaten by using the pita bread to pull the meat and vegetables off of the skewers.
• If you will be using wooden skewers to make your lamb kebabs, remember to soak them for at least 30 minutes so that they do not burn when you put them on the grill.