Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants (sliced in half and hollowed out)
- 500 g lamb shoulder (cut into chunks)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (for tzatziki)
- 1 medium cucumber (grated for tzatziki)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 lemon juiced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped for tzatziki)
Instructions
5 steps
Prepare the Eggplants
Slice the eggplants in half, hollow them out, and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
Pat dry before grilling to avoid bitterness.Cook the Lamb
In a large bowl, mix lamb chunks with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat until cooked through.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure lamb reaches 60°C (140°F) for medium rare.Make Tzatziki
In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
Let tzatziki chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for better flavor.Grill Eggplants
Preheat the grill and place the eggplant halves on it. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side until tender.
Brush with olive oil to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.Assemble the Dish
Fill the grilled eggplants with the cooked lamb and serve with tzatziki on the side.
Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
💡 Tips & Tricks
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Up to 3 days in an airtight container
Freezer
Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge
Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
What to Serve With
Complete your turkish meal with these perfect pairings:
About This Dish
Imam Bayildi with BBQ Lamb & Tzatziki Recipe is a beloved dish from Turkish cuisine.
Turkish cuisine is a fascinating blend of Central Asian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan influences. It's considered one of the three great cuisines in the world alongside French and Chinese.
This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 11 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can substitute with beef or chicken, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
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Nutrition Facts
4 serving(s) per recipe
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.
