Iskender Kebab is a famous Turkish dish that features thinly sliced döner kebab served on a bed of pita bread, topped with a rich tomato sauce and a dollop of creamy yogurt. This dish is known for its delicious combination of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among kebab lovers.

The history of Iskender Kebab dates back to the late 19th century in the city of Bursa, Turkey. It was created by Iskender Efendi, who revolutionized the way döner kebab was served by laying it on a bed of bread and adding tomato sauce and yogurt. This unique presentation quickly gained popularity and has since become a staple in Turkish cuisine.

To make Iskender Kebab, start by preparing the döner meat, which is typically made from lamb. The meat is seasoned with a blend of spices and cooked on a vertical rotisserie until it is tender and flavorful. Once cooked, the meat is thinly sliced and set aside. Next, prepare the tomato sauce by cooking tomatoes with butter and a touch of garlic until it becomes a rich, savory sauce. Cut pita bread into pieces and lightly toast them.

There are several ways to customize Iskender Kebab to suit your taste. You can use different types of meat, such as beef or chicken, instead of lamb. Some people like to add a sprinkle of sumac or a drizzle of melted butter over the dish for extra flavor. You can also adjust the level of spiciness in the tomato sauce by adding more or less chili flakes.

In Turkey, Iskender Kebab is typically served as a main course. The sliced döner meat is layered on top of the toasted pita bread, then generously drizzled with the tomato sauce. A dollop of yogurt is added on the side, and the dish is often garnished with grilled tomatoes and green peppers. It is best enjoyed hot, with a side of rice or bulgur pilaf.

While Iskender Kebab is a delicious and satisfying dish, it is important to be mindful of its calorie content and the amount of fat used in the preparation. The dish can be quite rich, so it is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Using lean cuts of meat and reducing the amount of butter in the tomato sauce can help make a lighter version of this classic dish.