Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of ground lamb?

Ground beef (80/20), Ground beef + a spoonful of fat and Ground chicken thigh are the easiest swaps. Below: 4 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Ground beef (80/20). Use the same amount. Everyday swap for kebabs, lahmacun and köfte; milder.

Adjust: Add a pinch of cumin and a bit of grated onion.

Ground beef (80/20)
Drop-in swap

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Everyday swap for kebabs, lahmacun and köfte; milder.

Flavor
Beefier, less gamey.

Texture
Same.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Add a pinch of cumin and a bit of grated onion.

Best for
Adana kebab, Köfte, Lahmacun

not vegetarian
Ground beef + a spoonful of fat
Small adjustment

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

If using lean beef, add fat for a juicier kebab.

Flavor
Rich.

Texture
Same.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Mix in 1–2 tbsp butter or tail fat.

Best for
Adana kebab, Şiş

not vegetarian
Ground chicken thigh
Changes flavor or texture

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Lighter, milder.

Flavor
Delicate.

Texture
Softer.

Moisture
Higher.

Adjust
Add extra seasoning and a little oil.

Best for
Köfte, Dolma filling

not vegetarian
Lentil-walnut crumble
Changes flavor or texture

Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

Meat-free filling for stuffed vegetables.

Flavor
Earthy.

Texture
Crumbly.

Moisture
Same.

Adjust
Season boldly with cumin and paprika.

Best for
Karnıyarık, Dolma

vegan

Common questions

What is the best substitute for ground lamb?

Ground beef (80/20) is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Everyday swap for kebabs, lahmacun and köfte; milder.

What is a vegan substitute for ground lamb?

Good vegan options are Lentil-walnut crumble.

How much should I use instead of ground lamb?

It depends on the swap. Ground beef (80/20): Use the same amount. Ground beef + a spoonful of fat: Use the same amount. Ground chicken thigh: Use the same amount.