Çökertme Kebabı (Turkish Steak with Shoestring Potatoes)

Çökertme Kebabı is a traditional Turkish dish originating from Bodrum. It combines tender strips of marinated beef, crispy shoestring potatoes, garlic yogurt, and a flavorful tomato sauce. This layered presentation makes it both visually appealing and incredibly delicious — a true feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Ingredients

For the Meat:

• 300 g beef sirloin (thin strips)

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the Marinade:

• 1 grated onion

• ½ tea glass olive oil

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp black pepper

• ½ cup milk

• 1 cup soda water

• 1 tbsp butter (for cooking)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes

• 1 grated tomato

For the Shoestring Potatoes:

• 2 medium potatoes

• 1 ½ cups sunflower oil (for frying)

For Serving:

• 4 tbsp garlic yogurt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat: Trim excess fat and slice the beef into thin strips.

2. Marinate: Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.

3. Make the Tomato Sauce: Melt butter in a pan, add red pepper flakes and grated tomato. Cook for about 10 minutes until thickened, then remove from heat.

4. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cut potatoes into matchstick-size pieces. Rinse in cold water, dry with paper towels, and fry in hot oil until golden. Drain on paper towels.

5. Cook the Meat: Heat oil and butter in a cast-iron pan. Sear the marinated beef strips over high heat until browned. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Assemble: On a serving plate, layer fried potatoes, garlic yogurt, tomato sauce, and beef strips. Garnish with roasted peppers and tomatoes. Serve immediately.

Çökertme Kebabı is best enjoyed fresh and hot. The crispy potatoes with creamy yogurt, tangy tomato sauce, and juicy beef create an irresistible harmony of flavors. Perfect for a special family dinner or to impress your guests with authentic Turkish cuisine.