Shish Tawook is a popular Lebanese dish consisting of marinated chicken skewers that are grilled to perfection. These flavorful skewers are often served with garlic sauce (toum), fresh vegetables, and warm pita bread. Here’s a traditional recipe to help you make Lebanese Shish Tawook at home.
Ingredients:
- For the Marinade:
- 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For the Garlic Sauce (Toum):
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, ground black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the Garlic Sauce (Toum):
- In a food processor, combine the garlic cloves and salt. Pulse until the garlic is finely minced.
- Add the lemon juice and process until smooth.
- With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the vegetable oil until the sauce is thick and creamy. Set aside.
- Assemble the Skewers:
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the grill with a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve:
- Serve the Shish Tawook skewers hot, accompanied by garlic sauce, fresh vegetables (such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions), and warm pita bread. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Tips for Perfect Shish Tawook:
- Marination Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight marination will yield the best flavor.
- Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken pieces are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Garlic Sauce: Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice in the sauce according to your taste preference.
Cultural Significance:
Shish Tawook is a beloved dish in Lebanon and throughout the Middle East. Its rich, tangy marinade and smoky grilled flavor make it a favorite for family gatherings and special occasions. It reflects the Lebanese tradition of using fresh, vibrant ingredients to create flavorful and satisfying meals.
Making Lebanese Shish Tawook at home allows you to enjoy a delicious and traditional dish that’s perfect for any occasion. These marinated chicken skewers, with their aromatic spices and creamy garlic sauce, are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re preparing them for a special celebration or a casual meal, this recipe will bring a taste of Lebanon to your kitchen.