Shish Tawook
If you’ve ever tasted shish tawook, you know how delicious this Middle Eastern dish can be. The tender, juicy chicken skewers with their aromatic blend of spices are impossible to resist. But what truly sets shish tawook apart is the yogurt marinade. The right combination of ingredients can take your dish from good to downright delicious.
What is shish tawook
Shish tawook is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that originated in Syria and Lebanon. The dish consists of tender chicken pieces marinated in a blend of spices and then grilled on skewers. The marinade is what gives shish tawook its unique flavor profile, and the recipe can vary depending on the region. Some recipes call for yogurt, while others use lemon juice or vinegar. Despite the variations, the result is always a delicious combination of savory and tangy flavors. So, whether you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or simply looking to try something new, you must try shish tawook.
Origin of shish tawook
Shish tawook has been a beloved Middle Eastern dish for centuries, but its exact origin is up for debate. Some believe that the dish was first created in Aleppo, Syria, while others argue that it originated in Lebanon. Regardless of its origins, shish tawook has become a staple dish in Middle Eastern cuisine.
One theory about the dish’s name is that “shish” refers to the skewers used to grill the chicken, and “tawook” is derived from the Turkish word “tavuk”, which means chicken. Another theory suggests that “tawook” comes from the Arabic word “taouk,” meaning chicken.
Despite its uncertain origins, shish tawook has gained popularity throughout the world. That’s due to its delicious flavors and ease of preparation. And with this recipe, you’ll be able to recreate the authentic taste of shish tawook right in your own kitchen.
Why make this recipe for tawook
- Shish tawook is a dish that bursts with flavor. And making it yourself allows you to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Plus, cooking this dish at home means that you can control the quality of the ingredients. This avoids additives sometimes found in pre-packaged shish tawook marinades.
- This recipe is perfect for experimenting with spice blends, making it easy to make your own.
Ingredients and substitutes
- Chicken is the star of this dish, so getting high-quality boneless chicken thighs and legs is crucial. You can also use boneless chicken breasts with an adjustment to the cooking time.
- Yogurt – It is best to use Greek yogurt or hung yogurt with less liquid and higher in fat. This encourages the marinade to stick to the meat even during the cooking process.
- You’ll also need garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Some recipes call for tomato paste, but it’s optional and can be skipped if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Substitutes – If you’re looking to switch things up, there are some substitutes you can try. Instead of lemon juice, you can use lime juice or vinegar for a tangy flavor. Similarly, you can replace olive oil with vegetable oil or even avocado oil. Both have a neutral taste that won’t overpower the other flavors in the marinade. And if you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder or even substitute it with ginger for a different taste.
Why yogurt marinade works best
Finding the perfect balance of flavors is what truly sets a shish tawook marinade apart. While there are many options to consider, yogurt is the clear winner when it comes to creating a delicious and tender shish tawook.
- Yogurt is a versatile ingredient. It not only adds tanginess but also helps to break down the proteins in the chicken. This results in a tender and juicy texture.
- The acidity in the yogurt helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse the marinade with flavor. In contrast, the creamy texture helps to coat the meat evenly, allowing for a more flavorful and even cooking.
- Moreover, yogurt gives the marinade a subtle richness and depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. The mild flavor of the yogurt won’t overpower the different flavors in the marinade. Thus, allowing each ingredient to shine through in every bite.
- Overall, using yogurt as the base for your shish tawook marinade will result in a tender, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s sure to impress. In the next section, we’ll provide some tips for making the ultimate shish tawook using yogurt as the main ingredient.
How to make shish tawook
- Marinade – Combine the marinade ingredients in a shallow ceramic, glass, or plastic bowl.
Pro tip – Do not use aluminum to marinate, as the citrus in the marinade can oxidize with the metal. - Marinate – Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and mix until all the chicken pieces are well coated. Then, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Pro tip – Thaw the chicken on the counter an hour before cooking, so it comes to room temperature.
- Skewers – Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Grill – Heat your stove top grill on medium-high or preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Pro tip – If you’re using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. If you’re using an oven, place the kebabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Stovetop – Place the skewers on the preheated grill and brush them lightly with oil to prevent sticking and promote browning. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked and slightly charred on the edges.
Pro tip – Do not turn the kebabs too often; give them time to get some color. - Oven – Place the baking sheet with the kebabs in the oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the kebabs are browned and cooked.
- Rest – Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the Shish Tawook hot with pita bread, hummus, garlic sauce, or side dishes. Add some fresh vegetables, such as sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, for a complete meal.
Tips for making shish tawook
To make the most delicious and juicy shish tawook at home, there are a few tips to keep in mind.
- Firstly, it’s important to marinate the chicken for at least a few hours, if not overnight. This allows the flavors to fully develop. You can even freeze the marinated chicken for later use.
- Secondly, when cooking the shish tawook, be sure not to overcook it. This can result in dry and tough chicken. The ideal cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chicken pieces and the heat of your grill or oven.
- Lastly, while the yogurt in the marinade will help tenderize the chicken, be sure not to use too much or marinate for too long. This can result in a mushy texture. Stick to the recommended proportions in the recipe and marinate for no more than 24 hours.
Troubleshooting
- Chicken is tough or dry after grilling. This is usually due to overcooking or not enough marination time. To prevent this, follow the recommended cooking time in the recipe and marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours.
- The marinade is too thick – you can thin it out with a splash of lemon juice or olive oil.
- The marinade seems too thin – you can add a little more yogurt or a spoonful of tahini to thicken it up.
- The chicken is bland – the simplest fix usually is to adjust seasoning and lemon juice. That will bring out the flavors of all the other spices. But, don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to make it more or less flavorful.
Ideas for serving shish tawook
Once your shish tawook is grilled to perfection, the possibilities for serving it are endless. No matter how you choose to serve your shish tawook, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- One classic option is to wrap the chunks of chicken in warm pita bread, and add some sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of tahini sauce or garlic sauce. This creates a delicious shish tawook wrap perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Another serving option is to place the shish tawook skewers on a bed of fluffy basmati rice, topped with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
- For a colorful and healthy meal, you can also serve some grilled vegetables on the side, such as zucchini, tomatoes, or bell peppers.
- And if you want something more unique, try serving shish tawook with a side of hummus and some warm, freshly baked flatbread. The creamy and smooth texture of the hummus pairs perfectly with the juicy and flavorful chicken, making for a mouth-watering combination.
How to store leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers from your shish tawook feast, storing them properly is essential.
- First, remove the chicken from any skewers before storing it. Then, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Or, you can also freeze it for up to three months.
- When reheating, make sure to do so slowly to prevent the meat from drying out. One option is to reheat the chicken in the oven at a low temperature or on a low setting in the microwave. You can also add a bit of moisture, such as a drizzle of olive oil or chicken broth. This will keep the chicken moist and tender.
Frequently asked questions
While grilling is the traditional and preferred method of cooking Shish Tawook, you can also use an oven or stovetop grill pan. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and watch the chicken to prevent it from overcooking.
It’s generally not recommended to marinate chicken for longer than 24 hours. Because the acid in the marinade can start to break down the protein fibers and make the chicken mushy. However, if you’re using a marinade with a low acid content and have the chicken stored in the fridge, you may be able to marinate for up to 48 hours.
Absolutely! In fact, many people prefer using chicken thighs as they tend to be more flavorful and juicy than chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
While both dishes are typically made with marinated meat and enjoyed wrapped in pita bread, there are some key differences to consider.
– Tawook, also spelled as “tavuk,” is a chicken dish that is popular in Lebanon, Turkey, and Syria. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of yogurt, garlic, lemon, and spices, giving it a tangy and slightly creamy flavor. Tawook is often grilled on skewers and served with pickled vegetables and garlic sauce.
– On the other hand, shawarma is a popular street food in the Middle East, made with thinly sliced meat that is seasoned with a blend of spices including cumin, coriander, and paprika. The meat is then stacked on a spit and slowly roasted, allowing the outer layer to become crispy and flavorful. The meat is shaved off the spit and served in a pita with vegetables and tahini sauce.
While both dishes are delicious in their own right, it’s important to understand the differences when creating a marinade for a specific dish. If you’re making tawook, for example, you’ll want to make sure your marinade includes yogurt and lemon to achieve that tangy flavor. And if you’re making shawarma, you’ll want to focus on the spices like cumin and paprika to achieve that distinctive taste.
Shish Tawook
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds (1 kg) Boneless skinless chicken thighs or legs ( cut into cubes)
Shish tawook marinade
- 4 tbsp (60 ml) Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) Lemon juice
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) Olive oil
- 6 large Garlic cloves (grated or minced)
- 2 tbsp (30 g) Tomato paste
- 1 tsp Ground paprika
- ½ tsp Cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp Ground Allspice
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Ground coriander
- ½ tsp Ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp Ground ginger
- ¼ tsp Ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp Dried parsley ((optional) )
- 12 tsp Kosher salt
- ½ tsp Black pepper powder
Plus
- 10 long Wooden skewers (soak in water for 30 mins)
Instructions
- Marinade – Combine the marinade ingredients in a shallow ceramic, glass, or plastic bowl.Pro tip – Do not use aluminum to marinate, as the citrus in the marinade can oxidize with the metal.4 tbsp Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp Lemon juice, 2 tbsp Olive oil, 6 large Garlic cloves, 2 tbsp Tomato paste, 1 tsp Ground paprika, ½ tsp Cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp Ground Allspice, 1 tsp Ground cumin, 1 tsp Ground coriander, ½ tsp Ground cinnamon, ½ tsp Ground ginger, ¼ tsp Ground nutmeg, 1 tbsp Dried parsley, 12 tsp Kosher salt, 1/2 tsp Black pepper powder
- Marinate – Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and mix until all the chicken pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.Pro tip – Thaw the chicken on the counter an hour before cooking, so it comes to room temperature.2 pounds Boneless skinless chicken thighs or legs
- Skewers – Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.10 long Wooden skewers
- Grill – Heat your stove top grill on medium-high or preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).Pro tip – If you're using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. If you're using an oven, place the kebabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Stovetop – Place the skewers on the preheated grill and brush them lightly with oil to prevent sticking and promote browning. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked and slightly charred on the edges. Pro tip – Do not turn the kebabs too often; give them time to get some color.
- Oven – Place the baking sheet with the kebabs in the oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the kebabs are browned and cooked.
- Rest – Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the Shish Tawook hot with pita bread, hummus, garlic sauce, or side dishes. Add some fresh vegetables, such as sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, for a complete meal.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- Firstly, it’s important to marinate the chicken for at least a few hours, if not overnight, to allow the flavors to fully develop. You can even freeze the marinated chicken for later use.
- Secondly, when cooking the shish tawook, be sure not to overcook it, as this can result in dry and tough chicken. The ideal cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chicken pieces and the heat of your grill or oven.
- Lastly, while the yogurt in the marinade will help tenderize the chicken, be sure not to use too much or marinate for too long, as this can result in a mushy texture. Stick to the recommended proportions in the recipe and marinate for no more than 24 hours.
Troubleshooting
- Chicken is tough or dry after grilling. This is usually due to overcooking or not enough marination time. To prevent this, follow the recommended cooking time in the recipe and marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours.
- The marinade is too thick – you can thin it out with a splash of lemon juice or olive oil.
- The marinade seems too thin – add a little more yogurt or a spoonful of tahini to thicken it up.
- The chicken is bland – the simplest fix usually is to adjust seasoning and lemon juice, which will bring out the other spices’ flavors. But don’t be afraid to change the spices to make it more or less flavorful.
Serving
Once your shish tawook is grilled to perfection, the possibilities for serving it are endless. No matter how you choose to serve your shish tawook, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.- One classic option is to wrap the chunks of chicken in warm pita bread, and add some sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of tahini sauce or garlic sauce. This creates a delicious shish tawook wrap that is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Another serving option is to place the shish tawook skewers on a bed of fluffy basmati rice, topped with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
- For a colorful and healthy meal, you can also serve some grilled vegetables on the side, such as zucchini, tomatoes, or bell peppers.
- If you want something more unique, try serving shish tawook with a side of hummus and some warm, freshly baked flatbread. The creamy and smooth texture of the hummus pairs perfectly with the juicy and flavorful chicken, making for a mouth-watering combination.
Conversions Used
1 lb = 453 grams, 1 cup = 240 ml, 1 stick = 113g, 1 tbsp= 15 ml, 1 tsp= 5 ml,
Nutrition Information
The nutrition information and metric conversion are calculated automatically. I cannot guarantee its accuracy. If this data is important to you please verify with your trusted nutrition calculator. Thank you
In conclusion, a delicious shish tawook dish is only as good as its marinade, and with the ultimate shish tawook marinade recipe and tips provided in this recipe, you now have the tools to create a mouthwatering chicken skewer that will impress even the toughest food critics. Remember to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find your perfect marinade, and don’t forget to troubleshoot any potential issues. So fire up that grill and get cooking! As Julia Child once said, “Cooking well doesn’t mean cooking fancy.” And with shish tawook, the ultimate marinade is the simplest and most delicious way to elevate your menu.
