Tangy Marinated Grilled Lamb Basturma

Basturma (Marinated and Grilled Lamb)

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Prepare yourself for a culinary journey with this exquisite Basturma, where lamb shoulder meets the aromatic embrace of pomegranate molasses and fresh herbs. Perfect for an impressive dinner or a special occasion, this marinated and grilled lamb will surely become a favorite. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 to 3 pounds lamb shoulder
• 1 cup pomegranate molasses
• 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
• 10 garlic cloves, minced
• Cracked black pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lamb: Start by trimming any excess fat from the lamb shoulder. Cut the lamb into 1-inch pieces to ensure even marinating and grilling.

2. Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the pomegranate molasses, pomegranate juice, olive oil, chopped basil, chopped dill, finely chopped green onions, minced garlic, and cracked black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully blended.

3. Marinate the Lamb: Add the lamb pieces to the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate. For best results, allow the lamb to marinate for at least 6 hours, though overnight is ideal for deeper flavor infusion.

4. Prepare the Skewers: Soak the skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.

5. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated lamb pieces onto the skewers.

6. Season the Lamb: Before grilling, season the lamb with salt and additional cracked black pepper as desired.

7. Grill the Lamb: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the lamb over banked coals for about 15 to 20 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The lamb should be nicely charred on the outside and tender on the inside.

8. Optional Broiling: If you prefer or if grilling isn’t an option, the lamb can also be broiled under a hot broiler. Adjust the broiler rack to the middle position and broil for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through.

9. Serve: Serve your Basturma hot off the grill, making sure to get plenty of the herbs onto the meat for an enhanced flavor experience.

Enjoy this delightful Basturma as a centerpiece at your next gathering or a delectable meal for your family. It pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, warm pita bread, or a side of tzatziki for added flavor. Bon appétit! 🌟🍢🥩