Dinner Idea: How to Make BBQ Lamb Kebabs

Melt the fat in a saucepan and cook the onion, green pepper, celery and garlic for about 10 minutes or until tender.

Add tomatoes and their liquid, the tomato paste, sugar, vinegar, salt, pepper, Tabasco and water. Bring to the boil; simmer for 5 minutes. Cool.

Cut the aubergine lengthways in half, then crossways into 2.5-cm (I -in) slices. Cut the peppers into 5-cm (2-in) pieces.

Prepare the barbecue ... about 1 hour before, serving. Drain the lamb and vegetables; thread them alternately on to long skewers. Spoon the marinade into a saucepan.

When the tomato mixture is cool, add the lamb cubes, aubergine and peppers and mix well. Cover and chill for 4 hours.

Place the skewers over the hot coals and barbecue, turning frequently, for about 30 minutes. Heat the marinade in the saucepan on the barbecue grill to serve with the lamb.

Now comes the exciting part - grilling the marinated lamb kebabs to perfection. Follow these steps to achieve juicy and tender kebabs that will leave your taste buds begging for more:

1. Soak the skewers in water for at least an hour before grilling. This prevents them from catching fire during the cooking process.
2. Take the skewers out of the water and run them through the meat, leaving a small space between each chunk.
3. Place the kebabs on the grill and cook for approximately 3 minutes per side.
4. Continue grilling for an additional 5-8 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness.
5. While grilling, remember you can brush the kebabs with the any Glaze sauce for added flavor and moisture.
6. Once cooked to perfection, remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
7. Brush the kebabs with the BBQ, ensuring every piece is coated.

Barbecued lamb kebabs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance the meal and create a memorable dining experience:

• Grilled vegetables: Accompany your kebabs with a colorful assortment of grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. The charred flavors of the vegetables complement the succulent lamb beautifully.
• Pita bread: Serve the kebabs with warm, fluffy pita bread to create a satisfying and portable meal. The bread adds a delightful texture and can be used to make delicious wraps with the kebabs and vegetables.
• Yogurt dip: Prepare a refreshing yogurt dip by combining Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped mint, and a squeeze of lemon juice. This cool and creamy dip complements the smoky flavors of the kebabs perfectly.

To ensure your barbecued lamb kebabs turn out perfect every time, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:

• Use a meat thermometer: To achieve your desired level of doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the lamb. For medium-rare, aim for around 145°F (63°C), while medium-well requires a temperature of approximately 160°F (71°C).
• Let the kebabs rest: After removing the kebabs from the grill, allow them to rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in tender and flavorful kebabs.
• Don't forget to baste: Regularly basting the kebabs with the glaze not only adds flavor but also helps keep them moist and juicy.
• Soak wooden skewers: If you're using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least an hour before grilling. This prevents them from burning during the cooking process.
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In addition to their delicious taste, barbecued lamb kebabs also offer various health benefits. Lamb is a nutrient-dense meat that provides essential vitamins, minerals, and protein. Here are some of the health benefits associated with consuming lamb:

• Rich in protein: Lamb is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which plays a crucial role in muscle development, repair, and overall health.
• Essential vitamins and minerals: Lamb is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, iron, zinc, and selenium. These nutrients support various bodily functions, including immune function and energy production.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Grass-fed lamb is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
• Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA): Lamb contains CLA, a type of fatty acid that has been associated with numerous health benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved body composition.