Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, grated and drained
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup English cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 clove garlic, grated into a paste
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Grate the onion and cucumber. Place each in a paper towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to remove excess water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, drained onion, minced garlic, parsley, and spices. Mix by hand until just combined.
  3. Optional: Let the meat mixture rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes for a firmer hold.
  4. Divide the beef into 8 equal portions. Mold the meat around skewers in a cylindrical shape, pressing firmly to eliminate air pockets.
  5. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a cast iron skillet or on a grill. Sear skewers for 3-4 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  6. Remove beef from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, squeezed cucumber, lemon juice, garlic paste, dill, and olive oil. Stir in salt to taste.