Souvlaki (grilled meat)

souvlaki_(grilled_meat)

Souvlaki, the Greek classic grilled meat dish that has captured the hearts of countless food enthusiasts around the world. It is a dish that is so beloved that it has become synonymous with Greek cuisine. Consisting of pieces of skewered, marinated meat, Souvlaki is a flavorful and juicy meat dish that is simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying.

Souvlaki is essentially a Greek street food, served in pita bread, on the go. This convenient food was popularized in Greece decades ago and has become a staple of the Greek culinary heritage. In its simplest form, souvlaki is made by skewering small pieces of meat, usually pork, with a simple marinade of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano. The skewers are then cooked over a charcoal grill, which provides a delicious smoky flavor and a crispy exterior, while the meat remains juicy and tender on the inside.

In Greece, Souvlaki is a ubiquitous food that can be found in almost every corner of the country. It’s a grab-and-go type of food that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a snack. The use of traditional Greek ingredients, such as oregano, fresh lemons, and high-quality olive oil, is what sets Souvlaki apart from other types of grilled meats worldwide.

The dish is often served with the very best of Greece’s cuisine, such as Tzatziki, Feta cheese, and salad. Tzatziki is a traditional creamy dip made of yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and olive oil, and is a perfect accompaniment to the spicy souvlaki. Feta cheese, a crumbly and tangy cheese made from goat milk, adds a nice touch of saltiness to the dish. Souvlaki is not complete without a Greek salad, which is made up of fresh tomatoes, cucumber, onions, feta cheese, and olives.

Although pork souvlaki is a classic dish, barbecued chicken, beef, and lamb also make for excellent variations to this dish. As Greek food is known to be healthy, souvlaki is often served with roasted vegetables, such as eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes, which add a colorful and nutritious touch to the meal.

However, Souvlaki is much more than just a way to fill a hungry tummy, it’s a symbol representing the spirit of Greece. The rich, deep taste of this dish embodies the flavors and traditions of the Mediterranean, making it a popular option amongst food lovers worldwide.

Overall, if you’re looking for a simple yet delicious way to prepare meat, Souvlaki is an excellent choice! With its perfect mix of ingredients and easy preparation, you’re sure to love it. So why not cook up a batch for your friends or family and share a taste of Greece, made with love in your kitchen today.

Ingredients:

1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts or pork loin, cut into bite-sized pieces

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp. dried oregano

1 tsp. dried thyme

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

Wooden skewers (soak in water for at least 30 minutes before using)

Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

  2. Add the diced chicken or pork to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours.

  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

  4. Thread the marinated meat onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.

  5. Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and lightly charred.

  6. Serve the souvlaki hot, with pita bread, chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and tzatziki sauce on the side.