Döner Kebab
Berlin Style
Experience the iconic Berlin-style Döner Kebab, a beloved Turkish-German fusion that has become Germany's most popular fast food. This recipe focuses on assembling a delicious döner at home, even without a vertical spit.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g Döner meat (thinly sliced lamb, beef, or chicken)(If you can't find pre-sliced döner meat, you can thinly slice marinated chicken thighs, lamb leg, or beef sirloin yourself and pan-fry until cooked through and slightly browned.)
- 4 Large flatbreads or thick pita breads(Look for sturdy breads that can hold the fillings without tearing.)
- 2 cups Shredded red cabbage(A key component for authentic Berlin-style döner.)
- 1 cup Shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce
- 1 cup Diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Thinly sliced red or white onions
- 1/2 cup Garlic sauce (Tzatziki or yogurt-based)(A creamy, garlicky sauce is essential.)
- 1/4 cup Spicy chili sauce (Harissa or Sriracha)(Adjust to your spice preference.)
- for topping Optional: Pickled cucumbers, thinly sliced
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the toppings: Ensure your red cabbage, lettuce, tomatoes, and onions are washed, shredded, or diced and ready. Have the sauces and any optional pickled cucumbers within easy reach.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Cook the döner meat: If using pre-sliced meat, heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat (around 200°C / 400°F). Add the meat in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid crowding) and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until heated through and slightly crispy. If cooking thinly sliced raw meat, cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes total.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes - 3
Warm the flatbreads: Lightly toast the flatbreads or pita breads on a dry skillet, griddle, or directly over a low gas flame for about 30-60 seconds per side, until they are warm, pliable, and slightly puffed. Be careful not to make them crisp.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Assemble the döner: Carefully open the warm flatbread like a pocket or lay it flat. Layer the bottom with a generous portion of shredded lettuce and red cabbage. Spoon a good amount of the cooked döner meat over the cabbage. Add diced tomatoes and sliced onions.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 5
Add sauces and wrap: Drizzle generously with garlic sauce and spicy chili sauce. Add pickled cucumbers if using. Fold or wrap the flatbread tightly to enclose the fillings. Serve immediately.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The distinctive crunch and slight tang of red cabbage is crucial for the authentic Berlin Döner experience.
- ✓Don't overstuff your döner, or it will be difficult to eat.
- ✓For an even more authentic experience, serve with a side of Ayran (a yogurt drink).
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Dürüm Döner: Use a larger, thinner flatbread (like a lavash) and wrap all the ingredients tightly into a cigar shape.
- Döner Box: Serve the meat, salad, and sauces over rice or fries instead of in bread.