Souvlaki

Introduction:

Souvlaki is one of Greece’s most beloved dishes, consisting of marinated pieces of meat—often pork, chicken, or lamb—grilled on skewers and served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables. This dish is known for its vibrant flavors, which come from a lemony, garlic-infused marinade combined with aromatic herbs like oregano. Souvlaki is typically enjoyed as street food, but it's also a perfect meal for a backyard barbecue.

Ingredients:

• 500g pork shoulder or chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin (optional for depth)
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for smokiness)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 8-10 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
• Tzatziki sauce (for serving)
• Pita bread (for serving)
• Fresh vegetables: tomatoes, cucumber, red onion (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the marinade:
   • In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, cumin (if using), red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This marinade will infuse the meat with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
2. Marinate the meat:
   • Add the pork or chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. For more intense flavor, marinate for up to 4 hours.
3. Prepare the grill:
   • Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F / 190-200°C). Brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Skewer the meat:
   • Thread the marinated meat onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the souvlaki:
   • Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until the meat is cooked through and charred on the edges. Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), while chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve with pita and tzatziki:
   • Serve the grilled souvlaki immediately with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a side of fresh tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion for a complete Greek meal.

Health Notes:

• Souvlaki is a high-protein, low-carb dish when served with fresh vegetables and a moderate amount of tzatziki sauce. Opt for lean cuts of meat like chicken breast to reduce fat content. You can also serve it with whole-grain pita for added fiber.

Serving Suggestions:

• Souvlaki is best served with warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a fresh Greek salad. Add a drizzle of extra olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor. It can also be paired with rice or roasted potatoes for a heartier meal.

Tips:

• Marinating: For the most flavorful souvlaki, allow the meat to marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight marination will yield the best results.
• Grill technique: Make sure the grill is hot before placing the skewers on to ensure a good sear on the meat.
• Tzatziki: Make your own tzatziki sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill for an authentic, refreshing side.