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Slow Cooker Doner Kebab Fakeaway
You won’t find anyone this side of the Mississippi that loves Doner Kebabs as much as me, on a night out I’ll have one, hungover I’ll have one😂 However, they come in as high as 1800-2000 calories. So this is a slow cooker Fakeaway version, can be done in the oven too.
SERVES
4
CALORIES
438
COOKING TIME
6 hours
DIFFICULTY
simple
What Is a Slow Cooker Doner Kebab?
If you’re craving a takeaway-style meal at home, a slow cooker doner kebab is the perfect fakeaway to try. Traditionally, a doner kebab (or döner kebab) is a Turkish dish made from spiced meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The word “doner” comes from the Turkish verb dönmek, meaning “to turn” or “rotate”, referring to the rotating spit the meat is cooked on.
In a takeaway or restaurant setting, meat—usually lamb, beef, or chicken—is stacked in an inverted cone shape and cooked slowly as it rotates next to a vertical heat source. As the outer layers cook, they’re shaved off and served in warm pitta or flatbread, often accompanied by crisp salad, garlic or chilli sauce, and pickled vegetables.
But you don’t need a rotisserie to enjoy this iconic dish. Using your slow cooker, you can recreate this popular doner kebab fakeaway at home. It’s an easy, hands-off method that delivers tender, juicy meat packed with flavour—perfect for a healthier twist on your favourite takeaway.
Why Make Doner Kebab in the Slow Cooker?
Making a doner kebab in the slow cooker is a convenient and healthier alternative to the takeaway version. It allows you to control the ingredients, reduce the fat content, and still enjoy the same delicious flavours. Simply season your meat with traditional spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic, and oregano, then slow cook until tender. Once cooked, the meat can be sliced or shredded and crisped up in a frying pan or under the grill for that authentic kebab texture.
It’s the ultimate fakeaway—easy, cost-effective, and packed with protein. Plus, it’s a great option for batch cooking and meal prep.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Doner Kebab
Pair your slow cooker doner kebab with all your favourite kebab shop classics for the full fakeaway experience:
- Warm pitta bread or flatbreads – to wrap up the juicy meat.
- Fresh salad – shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber.
- Garlic sauce, chilli sauce, or tzatziki – for that takeaway-style flavour boost.
- Pickled chillies or vegetables – add a tangy contrast.
- Oven-baked or air-fried chips – the ultimate side dish for a doner-inspired meal.
For a lower-carb option, serve the meat over a salad bowl or wrapped in lettuce leaves.
How to Store Leftover Doner Kebab
Got leftovers? No problem! Store your slow cooker doner kebab meat in an airtight container in the fridge once fully cooled. It will stay fresh for 3–4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months—just reheat thoroughly before serving. The meat reheats well and can be used in wraps, salads, or even on pizzas and baked potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Doner Kebab
Can I use different meats for slow cooker doner kebab?
Yes! While lamb is traditional, you can easily use beef, chicken, or even turkey. Chicken thigh fillets work particularly well as they stay moist during slow cooking.
How long does it take to cook doner meat in the slow cooker?
Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. The longer, slower cook helps tenderise the meat and enhances the flavour.
Is this doner kebab healthy?
Compared to takeaway versions, this fakeaway doner kebab is much healthier. You’re using lean cuts of meat, less oil, and can skip the processed sauces.
How do I make it spicy?
Add a pinch of chilli flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicier version.
By making your own fakeaway doner kebab in the slow cooker, you can enjoy all the bold flavours of a classic kebab with a healthier homemade twist. It’s easy, satisfying, and perfect for midweek dinners or weekend treats.
Method
Step 1
In a large bowl, add your lamb mince with some garlic, one egg and all of the spices listed. Give it a good mix so it is nice and combined (I prefer to use my hands here – messy, but it works best!)
Step 2
Place the lamb mince onto a sheet of tinfoil and wrap it securely to ensure it is fully covered. Use a fork to pierce the foil-wrapped lamb, allowing the fat to drain out during cooking. To do this, elevate the wrapped lamb by placing it on a few crumpled balls of tinfoil, ensuring that any excess fat can drip away effectively.
Step 3
Add the kebab into the slow cooker / crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours, or add to the oven at 200° (390°F) for one hour.
Step 4
Once cooked, slice and add to your pitta with some mixed salad and some garlic mayo… enjoy 🙂
Ingredients
For the lamb kebab:
500g of lamb mince (10% fat)
1 tsp of Cumin
1 tsp Paprika
1 tsp Chilli Powder
1 tsp Onion Granules
1 tsp dried coriander
Salt & Pepper
2 x crushed garlic cloves (or lazy garlic)
1 x egg, to bond
For the mayo:
2 x Crushed Garlic Cloves mixed with @hellmannsuk lighter than light Mayo
Served in a wholemeal pitta with rocket and onion.