Tavuk Şiş (Chicken Skewers)

tavuk_şiş_(chicken_skewers)

Turkey is renowned for its rich culture and diverse cuisine, and one of the most popular dishes that represents the country’s delicious food culture is Tavuk Şiş, which is also known as chicken skewers. Tavuk Şiş is one of the most popular street food dishes in Turkey, and it is loved by both locals and tourists alike. This delicious dish is a combination of marinated, skewered chunks of chicken, grilled to perfection, and served with a variety of sauces, salads, and flatbreads. Tavuk Şiş is also becoming increasingly popular globally, and it is now found in many Turkish and Middle Eastern restaurants worldwide.

The origin of Tavuk Şiş can be traced back to Ottoman times when the recipes for this dish were passed down from generation to generation. The Turks are known for their love of grilled meats, and Tavuk Şiş is a perfect example of this. The dish is versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for an outdoor barbeque or indoor grill. Tavuk Şiş is often served with other popular Turkish dishes such as Shish Kebab, Doner kebab, and Turkish pide bread.

To prepare Tavuk Şiş, chicken breast is usually cut into bite-sized pieces and then marinated in a flavorful mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, and other spices. The mixture is left to marinate for at least an hour, allowing the chicken to absorb all the flavours. Once the chicken has been marinated, it is skewered onto metal or wooden skewers and grilled over charcoal or gas flame. The skewers are turned frequently, ensuring that the chicken is cooked evenly on all sides.

The marinade used to prepare Tavuk Şiş can vary depending on the region and the personal preferences of the cook. Some recipes call for a spicier marinade, while others opt for a milder, tangy flavour. Regardless of the recipe, the marinade adds a perfect blend of flavours to the chicken, making it succulent, juicy, and tender.

Once the Tavuk Şiş has been grilled to perfection, it is removed from the skewers and served with various side dishes. The classic accompaniments to this dish are a light tomato salad, a refreshing cucumber, and yogurt dip and a warm flatbread. Some other popular side dishes include roasted vegetables, pickles, and spiced rice. The dish is often served with a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil to add extra flavour.

In conclusion, Tavuk Şiş is a classic Turkish dish that represents the country’s diverse cuisine perfectly. This delicious meal is perfect for any occasion and can be served as an appetizer, main course, or as a snack. The combination of marinated, grilled chicken and a variety of side dishes makes this dish an ideal choice for any meal. With its history and delicious taste, Tavuk Şiş is a must-try dish for anyone who loves Turkish food.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  3. Preheat grill or broiler to high heat.
  4. Thread the chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space in between each piece.
  5. Grill or broil the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
  6. Serve hot with some pita bread and yogurt sauce. Enjoy!