Traditional Shashlik Recipe

2022-11-02

By Ukrainian Cook

Ukrainian Cuisine

Main Course

Shashlik is a popular Ukrainian dish of marinated meat skewers grilled or broiled to perfection. Try this easy recipe for a taste of Ukrainian cuisine. 

What is Shaslik?

A grilled meat dish that is popular in many countries, including Ukraine. The dish is believed to have originated in the Caucasus region, which includes parts of Russia, Georgia, and Armenia, but it has since spread throughout Eastern Europe and Central Asia, including Ukraine. 

How to make traditional Ukranian Grilled Meat?

In Ukraine, shashlik is usually made with marinated chunks of pork, lamb, or beef that have been skewered and grilled over an open flame. The marinade typically includes garlic, vinegar, and a variety of herbs and spices, such as black pepper and paprika. 

Can shashlik be served with any specific side dishes or breads?

The dish is popular throughout Ukraine, but it is especially popular in the southern regions of the country, which have a warmer climate and a rich agricultural tradition. 

Are there any dipping sauces or spices that enhance the flavor of shashlik?

In these regions, shashlik is often served at outdoor gatherings, such as picnics, barbecues, and festivals, and is accompanied by traditional Ukrainian sides such as pickled vegetables, fresh tomatoes and cucumbers, and boiled potatoes. 

Are there any alternative vegetarian or seafood options for shashlik?

Although shashlik is not native to Ukraine, it has become an important part of Ukrainian culinary tradition, reflecting the country's long history of cultural exchange and influence from neighboring regions

Pitfalls on Shashlik

 Choosing the right meat: Shashlik is traditionally made with lamb, but it can also be made with beef, chicken, or pork. It's important to choose a meat that is tender and easy to cook on skewers. Try to avoid meat with too much fat or connective tissue, as this can make it tough.

 Marinating the meat: Marinating the meat is essential to the flavor of shashlik. The marinade typically includes vinegar, oil, onions, and a variety of herbs and spices. It's important to marinate the meat for at least 6 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

 Skewering the meat: Skewering the meat can be a challenge, as it needs to be evenly distributed and secure on the skewer. Try to keep the meat in similar sizes and shapes for even cooking. Use flat skewers or metal ones instead of bamboo skewers, as they are sturdier and won't burn.

 Proper grilling: Grilling shashlik requires a steady heat source, such as a charcoal grill. It's important to not cook the meat over too high heat, as this can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Flip the skewers regularly to ensure even cooking.

 Proper serving: Shashlik is typically served with rice, vegetables, and a variety of sauces. It's important to remove the meat from the skewers before serving and to allow it to rest for a few minutes to prevent juices from escaping. Use a sharp knife to slice the meat thinly against the grain for the best texture.

Ingredients

• 2lb of pork or lamb, cubed

• 2 onions, chopped

• 1/2 cup of vinegar

• 1/2 cup of sunflower oil

• 1 tsp of salt

• 1 tsp of black pepper

• 1 bay leaf

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tbsp of fresh chopped dill

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the cubed meat, chopped onions, vinegar, sunflower oil, salt, black pepper, bay leaf, minced garlic, and chopped dill. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.

2. Preheat the grill or broiler to high.

3. Thread the marinated meat onto skewers, alternating with pieces of chopped green bell pepper.

4. Grill or broil the skewers for 10-12 minutes on each side, until the meat is cooked through and charred.

5. Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving.

Preparation Time 30 min

Cook Time 60 min

Total time 90 min

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 300

Fat: 20 g

Saturated Fat: 6 g

Carbohydrates: 5 g

Fiber: 1 g

Sugar: 3 g

Protein: 25 g

Regional Ingredients Variations of Shashlik

Crimean-style Shashlik: Called "Krymski Shashlyk", this version is made with lamb or beef, marinated in red wine, garlic, and herbs, skewered and grilled over an open flame. It is typically served with grilled vegetables and fresh bread.

Carpathian-style Shashlik: Known as "Karpacki Shashlyk", this version is made with pork or beef, marinated in yogurt, paprika, and cumin, skewered and grilled until tender. It is typically served with roasted potatoes and sautéed mushrooms.

Odessa-style Shashlik: Called "Odeskyy Shashlyk", this version is made with pork, marinated in red wine, tomato paste, and dill, skewered and grilled until crispy. It is typically served with potato salad and pickled vegetables.

Bukovinian-style Shashlik: Known as "Bukowiński Shashlyk", this version is made with beef, marinated in red wine, garlic, and coriander, skewered and grilled until juicy. It is typically served with grilled vegetables and pickled cabbage.

Lviv-style Shashlik: Called "Lwowski Shashlyk", this version is made with pork or beef, marinated in beer, mustard, and honey, skewered and grilled until caramelized. It is typically served with mashed potatoes and sautéed onions.

Polissian-style Shashlik: Known as "Polisky Shashlyk", this version is made with lamb or beef, marinated in vinegar, garlic, and coriander, skewered and grilled until charred. It is typically served with boiled buckwheat and beetroot salad.

Chernihiv-style Shashlik: Called "Chernihivsky Shashlyk", this version is made with pork, marinated in soy sauce, ginger, and brown sugar, skewered and grilled until glazed. It is typically served with rice pilaf and grilled pineapple.

Try this delicious and popular Ukrainian recipe for Shashlik, using marinated meat skewers grilled or broiled to perfection. Share your creation on social media with the hashtags #shashlik #Ukrainianfood #meatskewers #grilled #broiled