Authentic Lebanese Shish Taouk Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of boneless chicken breast
  • 4 tablespoons of yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons of white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 Large red bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 Large onion, cut into chunks
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Steps and instructions

  1. Cut the chicken into cubes, place them in a bowl.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the yogurt, tomato paste, minced garlic, white vinegar, ground coriander, turmeric, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and olive oil. Stir well to form the marinade.
  3. Add the marinade to the chicken cubes. Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  4. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
  5. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating with chunks of red bell pepper and onion.
  6. Place the skewers on the grill or in the oven. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
  7. Remove from the grill or oven and allow to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

  • Cutting board - to chop the chicken and vegetables
  • Knife - for cutting the chicken and vegetables into cubes
  • Mixing bowl - to mix the marinade ingredients with the chicken
  • Wooden skewers - for threading the marinated chicken, bell pepper, and onion
  • Grill or oven - for cooking the shish taouk skewers
  • Tongs - for flipping the skewers while cooking

Recipe variations

  • Use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for a juicier and more flavorful result.
  • Add lemon juice or zest to the marinade for a tangy twist.
  • Experiment with different spices like cumin, cinnamon, or allspice to customize the flavor profile.
  • Include vegetables of your choice on the skewers, such as cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms.
  • Try grilling the marinated chicken on a charcoal grill for a smoky flavor.
  • Make a vegetarian version using tofu or paneer instead of chicken.
  • For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili flakes.
  • If you prefer a milder taste, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and paprika.
  • Serve the shish taouk with traditional accompaniments like garlic sauce, tahini sauce, or a fresh salad.
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce in the marinade.

Recipe overview

Shish Taouk is a popular Middle Eastern grilled chicken dish. This flavorful and aromatic recipe combines tender chicken pieces marinated in a zesty blend of yogurt, tomato paste, garlic, and exotic spices. The marinated chicken is then threaded onto skewers, alternating with chunks of red bell pepper and onion, and grilled to perfection. The result is a juicy, succulent dish with a lovely charred exterior and a burst of flavors. Whether served with a side of fresh salad, rice, or tucked into a pita bread, Shish Taouk makes a delightful meal that you will surely enjoy. This recipe involves a few steps, but the preparation is straightforward, and the outcome is absolutely worth it. Plus, most of the time is hands-off marinating time. So why wait? Let's start grilling!

Common questions

  1. How long should the chicken marinate? The chicken should marinate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
  2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast if you prefer. The cooking time may vary slightly.
  3. Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones? Yes, you can use metal skewers instead of wooden ones. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as metal skewers conduct heat faster.
  4. Can I cook the shish taouk in the oven instead of on a grill? Yes, you can cook the shish taouk in the oven. Preheat the oven to the same temperature as the grill and follow the cooking instructions, turning the skewers as needed.
  5. What can I serve with shish taouk? Shish taouk is often served with rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, pita bread, and a side of garlic sauce or tzatziki.
  6. Can I freeze the marinated chicken for later use? Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Shish Taouk, a popular Middle Eastern kebab, has a tale as flavorful as the dish itself. Its origins can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire, where it was a beloved meal among the Sultans and their courts. The name "Shish Taouk" literally translates to "chicken skewers" in Turkish. The dish then spread across the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, each adopting their own unique spins on the recipe. It's said that the secret to an authentic Shish Taouk lies in the marinade, where the ingredients are as diverse as the regions it traveled. Whether tucked inside a warm pita bread in Lebanon or served with rice in Turkey, Shish Taouk continues to charm palates worldwide, a testament to its royal origins.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.