Authentic Russian Shashlyk: A Traditional Skewered Meat Delight

Ingredients

2 pounds of pork shoulder
1 large yellow onion
1 cup of white vinegar
1/2 cup of lemon juice
4 cloves of garlic
1 tablespoon of salt
1 teaspoon of black pepper
1 teaspoon of paprika
1 teaspoon of coriander
2 Bay leaves
Vegetable oil, for brushing
Skewers

Steps and instructions

Cut the pork shoulder into 1 inch cubes and place in a large bowl.
Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic.
In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped onion, garlic, white vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, paprika, coriander and bay leaves to prepare the marinade.
Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Thread the marinated pork cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Brush the grill with vegetable oil to prevent the meat from sticking.
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is well browned and cooked through.
Remove the skewers from the grill and let the shashlyk rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Cutting board - to safely chop and prepare the ingredients
Knife - for cutting the pork shoulder and chopping onions and garlic
Large bowl - to marinate the pork and mix the ingredients
Plastic wrap - to cover the bowl and refrigerate the marinated pork
Grill - to cook the shashlyk skewers
Skewers - for threading the marinated pork cubes
Brush - to apply vegetable oil on the grill

Recipe variations

Substitute pork with chicken or beef for alternative meat options.
For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with chunks of tofu or tempeh.
Experiment with different marinades such as a yogurt-based marinade or a teriyaki sauce.
Add vegetables to the skewers, such as bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini, for added flavor and color.
Include pineapple or mango chunks on the skewers for a sweet and tangy twist.
Try using different spices and herbs in the marinade, such as cumin, oregano, or rosemary, to create unique flavor profiles.
For a spicier version, add chili flakes or hot sauce to the marinade.
Serve the shashlyk with a side of tzatziki sauce, hummus, or a garlic yogurt dip.
Grill the skewers over charcoal or wood for a smokier flavor.
For a healthier option, bake the skewers in the oven instead of grilling them.

Recipe overview

This delicious Shashlyk recipe will transport you straight to the heart of Eastern Europe, where this traditional dish is a staple at many gatherings and feasts. Shashlyk, a form of Shish kebab popular in former Soviet countries, is typically made from pork. It's marinated in a mixture of vinegar, onions, and a variety of flavorful spices before being skewered and grilled to perfection. Our recipe is quite straightforward and requires only simple ingredients. The key element is time – the longer you allow the meat to marinate, the deeper the flavors will be. Cooking on the grill gives the meat a smoky touch, but you can also prepare it on a stovetop grill pan. Enjoy the Shashlyk with a side of fresh salad, over rice or with some warm bread. It's the perfect recipe for your next barbecue or outdoor gathering!

Common questions

How long should I marinate the pork?
Marinate the pork for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
Can I use a different type of meat?
While traditionally made with pork, you can also use beef, lamb, or chicken for the shashlyk.
Can I grill the shashlyk indoors?
Yes, you can use an indoor grill or a grill pan to cook the shashlyk indoors if you don't have access to an outdoor grill.
What other vegetables can I add to the skewers?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for added flavor and color.
How do I know when the shashlyk is cooked?
The pork should be well browned and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What can I serve with shashlyk?
Shashlyk is often served with flatbread, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad. It pairs well with yogurt sauce or a tangy tomato-based sauce.

Serving dishes and utensils

Grill - A grill is essential for cooking the shashlyk skewers.
Skewers - Skewers are needed to thread the marinated pork cubes for grilling.
Bowl - A large bowl is required for marinating the pork.
Plastic wrap - Plastic wrap is needed to cover the bowl and marinate the pork in the refrigerator.
Knife - A knife is necessary for cutting the pork shoulder into cubes.
Cutting board - A cutting board is needed for chopping the onion and garlic.
Grill brush - A grill brush is helpful for brushing the grill with oil to prevent sticking.

Origin stories

Shashlyk, a form of skewered and grilled meat, is a dish deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of Eastern Europe, particularly in the Caucasus region. The word shashlyk is of Turkic origin and means 'skewered meat'. It was originally made of lamb, but pork became equally popular and widespread in Christian areas. The dish was traditionally cooked over an open fire, which was not only a culinary method, but also a communal activity. People gathered around the fire, chatting, singing, and sharing stories while waiting for the shashlyk to cook. This tradition is still alive in many places, making shashlyk much more than a meal, but a social event bringing people together.

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.