Alinazik: A Kebab Steeped in History

Alinazik is a kebab that adorns tables with the magnificent harmony of roasted eggplant and meat. It is one of the most delicious and satisfying kebabs of Anatolian cuisine, originating from Gaziantep. This kebab has become quite popular not only in Turkey but also abroad.

History of Alinazik

The history of Alinazik dates back to the 16th century. According to legend, Selim I, the Ottoman Sultan, stopped by Gaziantep during a military campaign and was served a special dish. The Sultan liked the dish very much and asked, “Whose gentle hand made this?” After this question, the name of the dish became “Eli Nazik.” Over time, the name “Eli Nazik” changed to “Ala Nazik” and then to “Alinazik.”

Where is Alinazik Famous?

Alinazik is one of the most important delicacies of Gaziantep cuisine. Therefore, it is also known as “Gaziantep Kebabı.” It is possible to find restaurants that make Alinazik in every corner of Gaziantep.

Alinazik Recipe and Preparation

Alinazik kebab consists of two main parts: eggplant puree and meat sauce.

Eggplant Puree:

• 2 eggplants
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 cup strained yogurt
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Meat Sauce:

• 300 gr ground beef
• 1 onion
• 1 tomato
• 1 bell pepper
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon pepper paste
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
• Cooking oil
• Salt and pepper

Preparation:

1. Roast the eggplants.
2. Peel the roasted eggplants and mash the inside with a fork.
3. Add strained yogurt, olive oil, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper and mix well.
4. Chop the onion and bell peppers finely. Grate the tomato.
5. Heat cooking oil in a pan and fry the onions.
6. Add the ground beef and fry until it loses its water.
7. Add tomato, tomato paste, pepper paste, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper and mix.
8. Cook the sauce for a few minutes.
9. Put the eggplant puree on a serving plate and pour the meat sauce over it.
10. Serve Alinazik kebab hot.

Alinazik Tips

• A grill, oven, or stove can be used to roast eggplants.
• To make it easier to peel the eggplants after roasting, let them cool down.
• Ground lamb can be used instead of ground beef for the meat sauce.
• You can add water to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
• You can serve Alinazik kebab with rice or bread.

Alinazik kebab is a kebab that is easy to make and tastes great. You can easily make this kebab at home and serve it to your family or guests.

Enjoy!