Jul 14 2026

Lamb Doner Recipe

Time3h
Serves4

Aka gyro or shawarma.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

For the Lamb Marinade

Method

Marinating the Lamb

  1. 1

    Prepare the Marinade

    In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

  2. 2

    Marinate the Lamb

    Cut the lamb shoulder into thin strips. Add the lamb to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for the best flavor.

Cooking the Lamb

  1. 3

    Preheat the Grill or Oven

    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 200°C (400°F).

  2. 4

    Cook the Lamb

    Remove the marinated lamb from the refrigerator. If using a grill, thread the lamb strips onto skewers. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb is cooked through and has a nice char. If using an oven, place the lamb on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes.

  3. 5

    Rest the Lamb

    Once cooked, remove the lamb from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly.

Assembling the Doner

  1. 6

    Prepare the Pita

    Warm the pita bread or flatbreads on the grill or in the oven for a few minutes until soft.

  2. 7

    Assemble the Doner

    Place a portion of the sliced lamb on each pita. Top with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

  3. 8

    Serve

    Serve immediately while warm, with extra tzatziki on the side if desired.

More from Bereket Turkish Restaurant