What is doner kebab? Doner kebab is seasoned meat stacked on a vertical spit and slowly roasted. First, thin layers of marinated meat are packed onto the skewer. Then the spit turns beside a hot grill. As the outside crisps, the cook shaves off thin, juicy slices. As a result, doner kebab is tender, smoky and full of flavour.
In this guide, we explain where the dish comes from and how it is made. We also cover how it is served and how it differs from its cousins. Finally, we show you where to enjoy it in Kuala Lumpur.
Where does doner kebab come from?
The dish is proudly Turkish. In fact, the word “döner” means “turning” in Turkish. It refers to the meat rotating beside the heat. Over time, the idea spread far and wide. So it inspired many famous cousins abroad.
How doner kebab is made
The method is all about patience. First, the cook seasons the meat with spices. Then they stack it in thin layers on a tall spit. As the spit turns, the outside roasts and crisps. Finally, each crisp layer is shaved off to serve.
What meat is used?
Several meats work beautifully. Lamb, beef and chicken are the most common. Each one is marinated with its own blend of spices. Meanwhile, the slow roasting keeps the meat juicy. So every version has its own character.
How doner kebab is served
There are many delicious ways to enjoy it. Some tuck the slices into warm bread as a wrap. Others serve doner kebab on a plate with rice and salad. Meanwhile, it also tops flatbread with sauces. So it suits any appetite.
Doner, shawarma and gyro: what’s the difference?
They are close cousins with one shared idea. All three roast meat on a turning spit. However, the spices and breads differ by region. Learn more in our guide to the difference between these grilled favourites, or meet the Arab cousin, spit-roasted shawarma.
Is it the same as iskender?
Not quite, but they are closely linked. Our İskender uses the same shaved, spit-roasted meat. Then it is laid over bread with tomato sauce and yoghurt. So İskender is a rich, plated way to enjoy it. It is a true Turkish favourite.
Where to try doner kebab in Kuala Lumpur
Craving tender, shaved meat? Then try it at Lalezar, a halal Turkish, Mediterranean and Persian restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. Enjoy it freshly carved and full of flavour. So explore the full Lalezar menu, or find your nearest branch. We welcome you across three locations: Ampang, USJ Heights and Centrepoint Bandar Utama.
Frequently asked questions
What is doner kebab in simple terms?
Simply put, it is seasoned meat roasted on a turning vertical spit, then shaved into thin, juicy slices.
Is it halal?
It can be, when made with halal meat. At Lalezar, everything is fully halal, so you can enjoy it with confidence.
What is it served with?
It is served in bread as a wrap, on a plate with rice and salad, or over flatbread with sauces.