Immerse yourself in the flavors of Anatolia with Ali Nazik Kebab, a Turkish delicacy that combines grilled chicken with a luscious blend of yogurt and smoked eggplant. This dish, originating from the Gaziantep region, is a splendid mix of smoky, creamy, and savory flavors, beautifully balanced to create a truly exquisite culinary experience.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 plate
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 26g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 480mg
Ingredients
- Chicken breast, cubed: 600g (1.32 pounds or 21 ounces)
- Eggplants: 2 medium-sized
- Plain yogurt: 300g (10.5 ounces)
- Garlic cloves, minced: 3 (about 15g)
- Butter: 30g (2 tablespoons)
- Olive oil: 30ml (2 tablespoons)
- Paprika: 5g (1 teaspoon)
- Ground cumin: 5g (1 teaspoon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Grill Eggplant: Char eggplants over an open flame until the skin is blistered. Peel and mash the flesh.
- Prepare Yogurt Mixture: Mix yogurt with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Combine with mashed eggplant.
- Cook Chicken: Season chicken with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook the chicken until golden.
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan, melt butter until it turns a light brown color.
- Assemble: Spread the yogurt-eggplant mixture on a serving plate, top with grilled chicken, and drizzle with melted butter.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra paprika if desired.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Smoke the Eggplant Properly: Ensure the eggplants are well charred for a deep smoky flavor.
- Balanced Yogurt Mixture: Adjust garlic in the yogurt to suit your taste.
- Don't Overcook the Chicken: Keep the chicken juicy by not overcooking it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a grill pan for the eggplants?
Yes, if an open flame is not available.
How to store leftovers?
Store in separate containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use beef instead of chicken?
Traditionally, it's made with lamb, but chicken and beef are great substitutes.