Shish Tawook Wa Labneh: A Delicious Middle Eastern Delight
Welcome to the tasty world of Shish Tawook Wa Labneh, a popular dish that brings a taste of the Middle East right to your kitchen! This delectable meal features grilled chicken marinated in flavorful spices and served with labneh, a rich and creamy yogurt dip. Shish Tawook is not just a dish; it’s a part of many Middle Eastern cultures and celebrations. The name comes from the Arabic words for “grilled chicken,” and it has been enjoyed for generations. This recipe is beloved for its delicious flavor, tenderness of the chicken, and the smoothness of the labneh, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast, boneless | 500 grams |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Lemon juice | 3 tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Yogurt (preferably Greek) | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Pine nuts (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
| Chopped parsley (for garnish) | 1 tablespoon |
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use any other meat like turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also substitute labneh with any thick yogurt if needed!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, paprika, cumin, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and mix well. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor).
- Prepare the Labneh: In a separate bowl, mix the yogurt with a pinch of salt and some minced garlic if desired. You can also add some lemon juice for extra zest. Stir until smooth.
- Skewering: After marinating, thread the chicken pieces onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Grill the chicken skewers for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re cooked through and have nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill. Serve the chicken hot with labneh on the side. You can sprinkle some pine nuts and chopped parsley on top for garnish.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 30 g | 60% |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g | 3% |
| Fats | 20 g | 31% |
| Sodium | 400 mg | 17% |
Tips and Tricks
- For extra flavor, try adding some cumin or sumac to the marinade.
- Don’t skip the marinating step; it really makes a difference!
- If you don’t have a grill, you can roast the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
- Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. It should be juicy and tender!
FAQs
What is labneh, and can I make it at home?
Labneh is a creamy yogurt spread often used in Middle Eastern cuisine. You can easily make it at home by straining regular yogurt through a cheesecloth for a few hours.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, using chicken thighs can make the dish even more flavorful and juicy due to their higher fat content.
What should I serve with Shish Tawook Wa Labneh?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or a simple salad.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! You can add chili powder or hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes! You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it completely before grilling.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat chicken is in the oven at a low temperature to keep it tender. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes! Shish Tawook Wa Labneh is generally kid-friendly. Just adjust the spice levels if your children prefer milder flavors.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store the labneh in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.
Now that you have all the tools you need, get ready to enjoy making Shish Tawook Wa Labneh! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that you can share with your loved ones around the table. Happy cooking!
