Discover the mouthwatering recipe for Kebab-e Kord, a popular dish featuring tender skewers of marinated lamb or chicken grilled to perfection. Learn how to prepare this delicious and aromatic kebab, infused with rich spices and served with your favorite sides. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a hearty meal any time of the year!

Ingredients:

- 1 lb (450 g) lamb or chicken, cut into cubes

- 1 large onion, grated

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1/4 cup plain yogurt

- 2 tbsp olive oil

- 2 tbsp lemon juice

- 1 tsp ground cumin

- 1 tsp ground coriander

- 1/2 tsp paprika

- 1/2 tsp turmeric

- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

- 1/2 tsp salt

- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the grated onion, minced garlic, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.

2. Marinate the Meat: Add the cubed lamb or chicken to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.

4. Skewer the Meat: Thread the marinated meat onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.

5. Grill the Kebab: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for chicken or 145°F (63°C) for lamb.

6. Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Kebab-e Kord with your favorite side dishes like rice, salad, or flatbread!

Nutritional Values:

Lamb or Chicken (1 lb / 450 g)

  - Nutritional Values (per 100 g, raw)

Lamb:

   - Approximately 250 calories,

   - 21 g protein,

   - 20 g fat

   - Chicken: Approximately

   - 165 calories,

   - 31 g protein,

   - 3.6 g fat

Benefits:

   - Both lamb and chicken are excellent sources of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.

   - Lamb provides a higher fat content but is rich in iron and vitamin B12.

   - Chicken is leaner and lower in fat, making it a healthier option for maintaining a balanced diet.

Onion (1 large):

  - Nutritional Values (per 100 g)

   - Approximately 40 calories,

   - 1 g protein,

   - 0.1 g fat,

   - 9 g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Onions are high in antioxidants and sulfur compounds, which help reduce inflammation and support heart health.

   - They are also a good source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system.

Garlic (3 cloves):

  - Nutritional Values (per 100 g)

   - Approximately 149 calories,

   - 6.4 g protein,

   - 0.5 g fat,

   - 33 g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Garlic has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which help combat infections.

   - It also contains allicin, which supports heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

Plain Yogurt (1/4 cup):

  - Nutritional Values (per 100 g)

   - Approximately 61 calories,

   - 3.5 g protein,

   - 3.3 g fat,

   - 4.7 g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Yogurt provides probiotics, which promote gut health and improve digestion.

   - It is also a good source of calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health.

Olive Oil (2 tbsp):

  - Nutritional Values (per 100 g):

   - Approximately 884 calories,

   - 0 g protein,

   - 100 g fat (mostly monounsaturated),

   - 0 g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease.

   - It also provides vitamin E, which supports skin health.

Lemon Juice (2 tbsp):

  - Nutritional Values (per 100 g)

   - Approximately 22 calories,

   - 0.4 g protein,

   - 0.1 g fat,

   - 7 g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Lemon juice is high in vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and promotes healthy skin.

   - It also aids in digestion and can help balance pH levels in the body.

Ground Cumin (1 tsp):

  - Nutritional Values (per 100 g)

   - Approximately 375 calories,

   - 18 g protein,

   - 22 g fat,

   - 44 g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Cumin has antioxidant properties and aids in digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes.

   - It is also known to help regulate blood sugar levels.

Ground Coriander (1 tsp):

  - Nutritional Values (per 100 g)

   - Approximately 298 calories,

   - 12 g protein,

   - 14 g fat,

   - 55 g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Coriander contains antioxidants and vitamins that support immune health and help fight inflammation.

   - It also has antibacterial properties and can aid in digestion.

Paprika (1/2 tsp):

  - Nutritional Values (per 100 g)

   - Approximately 282 calories,

   - 14 g protein,

   - 13 g fat,

   - 54 g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Paprika is rich in vitamins A, E, and antioxidants that support eye health and boost the immune system.

   - It also contains capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory effects.

Turmeric (1/2 tsp):

  - Nutritional Values (per 100 g)

   - Approximately 312 calories,

   - 9 g protein,

   - 3.3 g fat,

   - 67 g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that supports joint health and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

   - It also helps improve digestion and has potential anti-cancer properties.

Ground Black Pepper (1/2 tsp):

  - Nutritional Values (per 100 g)

   - Approximately 251 calories,

   - 10 g protein,

   - 3.3 g fat,

   - 64 g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Black pepper contains piperine, which enhances nutrient absorption and has antioxidant properties.

   - It also aids in digestion and may help improve brain function.

Salt (1/2 tsp):

  - Nutritional Values (per 100 g)

   - Approximately 0 calories,

   - 0 g protein,

   - 0 g fat,

   - 0 g carbohydrates (sodium content is about 40 g per 100 g)

Benefits:

   - Salt is essential for maintaining electrolyte balance and proper hydration.

   - It also plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction.

The combined nutritional values and benefits of the marinade ingredients include a mix of vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats, which enhance the flavor of the kebabs while providing various health benefits. The yogurt, lemon juice, and spices contribute to digestive health, immune support, and anti-inflammatory effects.