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Traditional Souvlaki

2022-10-11

By Greek Chef

Greek Cuisine

Main Course

3 Perfect Ways to Make Souvlaki: Slow Cooker, Instant Pot, and Air Fryer Methods

Slow Cooker Souvlaki: Tender, Juicy Skewers Infused with Flavor with Minimal Effort

Marinate your chicken, pork, or lamb souvlaki skewers and place them in the slow cooker. Set it to "Low" for 4-6 hours to allow the meat to become tender and infused with the rich flavors of your marinade. The slow cooker's gentle heat makes it easy to prepare succulent, juicy souvlaki without needing constant attention.

Instant Pot Souvlaki: Quick, Flavorful Skewers in Just Minutes with a Perfect Crispy Exterior

For a faster version, use the Instant Pot's "Saute" mode to quickly sear the meat on both sides for a crispy exterior, then switch to "Pressure Cook" for 5-7 minutes. The Instant Pot locks in the flavors and juices, giving you a tender, flavorful souvlaki in a fraction of the time.

Air Fryer Souvlaki: Crispy, Golden Skewers in Less Time and with Less Oil

After marinating, thread the meat onto skewers and place them in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 375°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even crisp on all sides. The air fryer mimics grilling, giving you the crispy, golden exterior of traditional souvlaki with less oil and in a shorter time.

Tips and Suggestions on Souvlaki

Consistency

Making good Souvlaki requires consistency in skewering the meat, marinating it, and cooking it to perfection. Any variations can affect the taste and texture of the finished product.

Timing

Grilling Souvlaki at the right temperature and for the right amount of time is crucial to keep it juicy and flavorful. Overcooking can result in tough and dry meat, while undercooking can put the consumer's health at risk.

Hygiene

Handling and preparing the meat and other ingredients for Souvlaki poses a risk of contamination if not done properly. Providers need to follow food safety regulations and maintain clean equipment and workspaces.

Creativity

Souvlaki is a traditional Greek dish, but that doesn't mean it can't be modernized or adapted to different tastes and preferences. Providers can experiment with different marinades, meats, toppings, and sauces to create a unique and appealing product.

Classic Souvlaki Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb pork tenderloin, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 4 large pita breads
  • 1 large tomato, sliced
  • 1/2 red onion, sliced
  • 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine sliced pork, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated pork slices onto skewers.
  3. Grill the skewers, turning occasionally, for approximately 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
  4. While the pork is cooking, warm the pita bread briefly on the grill or in the oven.
  5. To assemble the souvlaki, place one pita bread on a plate and top with sliced tomato and red onion. Add the cooked pork skewers to the pita bread and drizzle with tzatziki sauce. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time

Preparation Time 30 min

Cook Time 20 min

Total time 50 min

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 359
  • Fat: 21 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Protein: 24 g

Variations for Souvlaki

Pork souvlaki

This version is made by marinating tender pork cubes in olive oil, lemon, and herbs, then grilling to perfection on skewers.

Pork souvlaki (Σουβλάκι χοιρινό)

Swordfish Souvlaki

This version is made by seasoning swordfish chunks with Mediterranean spices and grilling them until succulent, served with tzatziki for an oceanic delight.

Swordfish Souvlaki

Shrimp Souvlaki

This version is made by marinating fresh shrimp in lemon and herbs, then grilling for a quick, flavorful skewered seafood dish.

Shrimp Souvlaki

Potato Souvlaki

This version is made by combining juicy souvlaki and bifteki with roasted potatoes, showcasing the hearty flavors of Cretan cuisine.

Souvlaki, Bifteki und Kartoffeln nach kretischer Art

Greek Skewers

This version is made with marinated pork grilled to perfection on skewers, enhanced with classic Greek flavors for an ultimate taste experience.

Pork Souvlaki, Ultimate Greek Skewers

Chicken skeke

This version is made by baking marinated chicken skewers in the oven, resulting in tender, flavor-packed pieces perfect for any meal.

Traditional Chicken skeke, In the oven

Souvlaki Recipe Review

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