In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh mint, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. If using, add the egg and breadcrumbs now.

Using clean hands, mix everything together thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture feels slightly sticky. Don't overmix, just until combined.

Lightly oil your hands with olive oil. Take handfuls of the meat mixture and shape them around skewers (if using) or form into elongated sausage shapes, about 2-3 cm thick and 10-15 cm long.

Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with a little oil to prevent sticking.

Carefully place the shaped kebabs on the hot grill. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, rotating occasionally, until browned all over and cooked through. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the kebabs and grill temperature.

Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a minute or two before serving.