Savory Shishlik Skewers with Garlic and Herbs
Experience the authentic taste of Israel with these flavorful Shishlik skewers, perfect for grilling enthusiasts and meat lovers alike. Traditionally prepared with cubed beef, this delicious recipe is enhanced by a zesty marinade featuring olive oil, fresh garlic, and fragrant herbs. These skewers are ideal for summer barbecues and gatherings, best served with warm pita bread and a side of crisp salads. Feel free to experiment with different cuts of meat to suit your preference. Get ready to indulge in juicy, tender bites that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Israel.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Olive oil
1 1/2 cups (for marinade)
Lemon juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
Garlic cloves
2 (minced)
Onion
1 (finely chopped)
Parsley
1/4 cup (chopped)
Salt
2 tablespoons (to taste)
Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (freshly ground)
Dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Beef steaks
2 lbs (cubed)
Skewers
as needed (metal or presoaked wooden)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, salt, pepper, and dried thyme until well combined. This will be your marinade.
2
Add the cubed beef steaks to the marinade, ensuring that all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
3
After marinating, remove the beef from the refrigerator. Drain any excess marinade and thread the marinated beef onto metal skewers or, if using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4
Preheat your broiler or grill to a high temperature. Place the skewers on a grill rack or a broiler pan, and cook for approximately 7 minutes on each side, or until the meat reaches your desired level of doneness.
5
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite salads and warm pita for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shishlik?
Shishlik is a popular style of skewered and grilled meat cubes, traditionally part of Israeli and Mediterranean cuisine.
What type of meat is used in this Shishlik recipe?
This recipe uses 2 lbs of beef steaks that have been cubed for skewering.
How do I prepare the marinade for the beef skewers?
Whisk together 1 1/2 cups of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, salt, pepper, and dried thyme in a large bowl.
How long should the beef marinate?
The beef should be refrigerated in the marinade for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Can I use wooden skewers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use wooden skewers, but you must soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning.
How long do the Shishlik skewers need to cook?
Cook the skewers for approximately 7 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
What are the best side dishes for Shishlik?
Shishlik is best served with warm pita bread and a variety of crisp, fresh Mediterranean salads.
Is it possible to cook Shishlik without an outdoor grill?
Yes, you can use your oven's broiler on a high temperature setting as an alternative to grilling.
Why is it important to let the meat rest after cooking?
Letting the meat rest for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
How much olive oil is required for the marinade?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of olive oil to create a rich and flavorful marinade.
What herbs are used in the Shishlik marinade?
The marinade features 1/4 cup of chopped parsley and 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme.
How many garlic cloves are needed for the recipe?
The recipe requires 2 minced garlic cloves.
Should the lemon juice be fresh?
Yes, for the best zesty flavor, use 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Can I use other types of meat for these skewers?
While traditionally made with beef, you can experiment with different cuts or types of meat to suit your preference.
What preparation is needed for the onion?
The onion should be finely chopped so it can evenly distribute its flavor throughout the marinade.
Is this recipe suitable for a summer barbecue?
Absolutely, these skewers are perfect for summer grilling and outdoor gatherings.
How much salt and pepper should I add?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper, though you can adjust to taste.
Should I cover the meat while it is marinating?
Yes, cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap before placing it in the refrigerator.
What type of skewers should I use?
You can use either metal skewers or wooden skewers, provided the wooden ones are pre-soaked.
What flavor profile can I expect from these skewers?
Expect a savory, zesty, and aromatic profile with clear notes of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 total ingredients, including the meat, marinade components, and skewers.
Is Shishlik a traditional Israeli dish?
Yes, it is a staple street food in Israel and is commonly enjoyed throughout the Mediterranean.
What should I do with the excess marinade before cooking?
You should drain any excess marinade from the beef cubes before threading them onto the skewers.
How hot should the grill or broiler be?
The grill or broiler should be preheated to a high temperature for optimal searing and cooking.
Can I prepare the meat more than 2 hours in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the meat for longer than 2 hours to deepen the flavor, as long as it remains refrigerated.
Is this dish considered party food?
Yes, skewered meats like Shishlik are excellent for parties because they are easy to serve and eat.
Do I need to grease the grill rack?
Since the marinade contains 1 1/2 cups of olive oil, the meat is well-coated, but lightly greasing the rack can further prevent sticking.
How small should the beef cubes be?
The beef should be cut into bite-sized cubes that are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
What is the preparation for the parsley?
The parsley should be fresh and finely chopped before being added to the marinade.
Can I add vegetables to these skewers?
While this specific recipe focuses on meat, you can easily thread vegetables like peppers or onions between the beef cubes if desired.