Transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Iraq with our Shish Kebab with Iraqi Spices. This dish captures the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine, featuring succulent pieces of marinated meat infused with a rich blend of spices. Perfect for a family meal or a festive gathering, these kebabs are sure to impress with their robust flavors and aromatic appeal.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus 2 hours marinating time)
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
Ingredients
- 500g (1.1 lbs) beef or lamb, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Method of Preparation
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the grated onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, ground black pepper, paprika, ground allspice, ground cloves, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Meat: Add the meat cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Skewer the Meat: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated meat cubes onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Grill the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked to your desired level of doneness and has a nice char on the outside.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the kebabs to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F for medium-rare.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of saffron to the marinade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef or lamb? A: Yes, chicken thighs work well with this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Q: Can I cook these kebabs in the oven? A: Yes, you can bake the kebabs in a preheated oven at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- Q: What side dishes pair well with these kebabs? A: Serve the kebabs with Middle Eastern sides like hummus, tabbouleh, pita bread, and a fresh cucumber-tomato salad.
Delight in the authentic taste of the Middle East with our Shish Kebab with Iraqi Spices. This recipe brings the warmth and richness of Iraqi cuisine to your table, making every meal a flavorful journey. Enjoy the tender, juicy meat and aromatic spices with your loved ones, and create unforgettable culinary memories.