Spicy barbecued lamb pockets

Spicy barbecued lamb pockets feature seasoned lamb mince combined with a fresh carrot and cherry tomato salad, all stuffed in warm pita breads. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is both bold and satisfying, ideal for lovers of spice and vibrant flavors.

22 Dec 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 red onion
1/2 cup coriander leaves
1 lb lamb mince
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp curry powder
2 tsp ground cumin
4 pita breads
1.50 cups cherry tomatoes
2 carrots
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup almonds
1 tsp honey
2 tbsp lemon juice

Spicy barbecued lamb pockets salad is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the bold taste of seasoned lamb mince with the crisp freshness of a carrot salad. It's a perfect meal for those who enjoy a bit of spice and love Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. The combination of savory lamb, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy lemon dressing makes this recipe a hit for any occasion.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Finely chop the red onion.
- Roughly chop the coriander leaves.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Grate the carrots.

2. Making the Lamb Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lamb mince, chopped red onion, minced garlic, curry powder, and ground cumin.
- Mix well using your hands or a spoon until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Cooking the Lamb:
- In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the lamb mixture to the pan.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, or until the lamb is browned and cooked through.

4. Preparing the Salad:
- In a medium bowl, combine the grated carrots, halved cherry tomatoes, roughly chopped coriander leaves, almonds, honey, and lemon juice.
- Toss everything together until well coated and evenly mixed.

5. Warm the Pita Breads:
- While the lamb is cooking, warm the pita breads. You can do this either by placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or by warming them in a skillet over low heat for about 2 minutes on each side.

6. Assembling the Pockets:
- Once the lamb is cooked and the pitas are warm, slice the pita breads in half to create pockets.
- Fill each pita pocket with a generous amount of cooked lamb mixture.
- Top the lamb mixture with a spoonful of the carrot and cherry tomato salad.

7. Serving:
- Serve the spicy barbecued lamb pockets with any remaining carrot salad on the side.
- Enjoy your delicious, flavorful meal!

Spicy barbecued lamb pockets is an easy yet impressive dish that will satisfy your cravings for something hearty and refreshing. By following the tips and utilizing the flavorful ingredients, you can create a meal that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy it as a delightful weeknight dinner.

Spicy barbecued lamb pockets FAQ:

How long should I cook the lamb mixture?

Cook the lamb mixture in the skillet for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through.

Can I substitute lamb mince with another type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute lamb mince with ground beef, turkey, or chicken, but keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly depending on the meat used.

What should I do if my lamb mixture is too dry?

If the lamb mixture seems dry, you can add a splash of water or broth to moisten it as it cooks, ensuring that it remains juicy.

How should I store leftovers of the lamb pockets?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the lamb mixture before assembling the pockets again.

What can I serve with the Spicy Barbecued Lamb Pockets?

These lamb pockets pair well with a side of roasted vegetables, a green salad, or extra fresh pita and hummus.

Tips:

- Make sure to finely chop the red onion and garlic for even distribution and better flavor integration in the lamb mixture.

- Toast the almonds lightly beforehand to enhance their flavor and add extra crunch to the carrot salad.

- For an extra touch of heat, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or a small amount of finely chopped chili to the lamb mince.

- Allow the lamb mince to marinate with the spices for at least 10-15 minutes before cooking for a deeper flavor.

- Use whole-wheat pita breads to add more fiber to the meal and give a nuttier taste.

- Grill the pitas just before serving to keep them warm and to add a slight crispiness.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 580kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 45g
Fiber 8g
Sugar 8g
Fat 36g

Spicy barbecued lamb pockets