Kebab banjan – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Syria Region / Locale: Aleppo governorate Servings: Serves 4-6
Syria Region / Locale: Aleppo governorate Servings: Serves 4-6Kebab Banjan is a traditional Syrian meat dish, celebrated for its richly complex flavors and aromatic spices. Originating from the heart of Syria, this dish harmoniously blends succulent skewers of spiced lamb or beef with the earthiness of eggplants, a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. Perfected over generations, Kebab Banjan is traditionally enjoyed during family gatherings and festive occasions, offering a taste of Syrian heritage in every bite.
Ingredients
- ground lamb or beef – 1.5 lbs / 680 g
- eggplants – 2 large, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- garlic cloves – 3, minced
- ground cumin – 1 tsp / 5 g
- ground coriander – 1 tsp / 5 g
- ground cinnamon – 1/2 tsp / 2.5 g
- paprika – 1 tsp / 5 g
- allspice – 1/2 tsp / 2.5 g
- salt – 1.5 tsp / 8 g
- black pepper – 1 tsp / 5 g
- olive oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- fresh parsley – 1/4 cup / 15 g, chopped
- tomato paste – 2 tbsp / 30 g
- water – 1/2 cup / 120 ml
Instructions
- Preheat grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground lamb or beef, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Form the meat mixture into long oval-shaped kebabs around skewers.
- Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the eggplant slices and kebabs for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
- In a small pan, combine tomato paste and water; heat until slightly thickened.
- Arrange grilled eggplant and kebabs on a serving platter. Drizzle with the tomato sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.
Substitutions
- ground lamb or beef -> ground chicken or turkey
- eggplants -> zucchini
- olive oil -> sunflower oil
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a yoghurt-garlic sauce for a creamy contrast.
- Marinate the meat for a few hours to enhance the flavors.
- Use smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
