Shish Tawook, a popular dish in Middle Eastern cuisine, is enjoyed widely in Egypt. This healthy kebab consists of marinated chicken skewers infused with robust flavors. The simple marinade uses a blend of spices and yogurt, creating moist and tender chicken that embodies the essence of authentic Middle Eastern food. Typically served with pita bread, salads, or pickles, it’s a versatile delight.
Often known as Shish Taouk or Tawouk, this dish has its origins in Lebanon but has become a staple in Egyptian households. The combination of seasoning gives it a unique and complex flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. These chicken skewers also make for a quick and easy meal, without sacrificing the traditional taste we adore.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons yogurt
- 3 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 large garlic clove, crushed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground dry coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into large cubes
- Colored bell peppers, cut into chunks
- Wooden or metal skewers
Preparation
- In a food processor or blender, add 2 tablespoons of yogurt, 3 tablespoons of tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, juice of 1 lemon, zest of 1 lemon, and 1 large crushed garlic clove.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of ground dry coriander, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of ginger powder to the blender.
- Blend the ingredients until they form a smooth, rich sauce.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken cubes and mix until all chicken pieces are well-coated.
- Cover the marinated chicken with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Skewer the chicken cubes, alternating with chunks of colored bell peppers.
- Preheat an electric grill to high heat.
- Grill the skewers for about 4 minutes per side, turning until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden, caramelized exterior.
- Serve hot with your choice of sides like pita bread, green salad, or fried potatoes.
Did you know?
Shish Tawook is not just a Lebanese favorite but has also found a special place in Egyptian cuisine. The word “shish” means skewer in Turkish, and “taouk” is derived from the Arabic word for chicken. This delectable dish is known for its nutritional benefits due to the use of healthy ingredients like yogurt and spices, which provide both protein and essential vitamins.
This method of marination was historically used to tenderize tough meat cuts and infuse them with flavor before the advent of modern refrigeration. Lemons, in particular, play a crucial role in breaking down the fibers in the chicken, resulting in tender and flavorful kebabs. The addition of spices not only enhances taste but also provides antioxidants.
In Egypt, it’s common to serve Shish Tawook with a side of “Baladi” bread, a type of flatbread, and a variety of dips like tahini or baba ganoush. This makes it a versatile dish perfect for family meals or special occasions. So next time you’re looking for an easy, delicious, and authentic meal, give Shish Tawook a try!
