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PersianAuthentic Cuisine

Persian Grilled Skewers

Serves 4 to 6 Appetizer meat, Appetizers

Persian Grilled Skewers

Persian Grilled Skewers bring the warmth of a Persian home to your table, where the art of grilling is passed down through generations. This dish is not reserved for special occasions, but rather a delightful staple at home gatherings, where the salt is measured by feel and the richness of fat is embraced. Traditionally, these skewers are prepared in the same way they are enjoyed — with generous helpings and without specific measurements, just as a Persian family would.

When done right, these skewers boast tender lamb cubes infused with the aromatic essence of cumin and the gentle sharpness of onion. The olive oil bathes the meat, ensuring each bite is succulent and bursting with flavor. Black pepper adds a subtle kick, enhancing the natural richness of the lamb. Serve these skewers as they are, encouraging diners to savor each morsel, relishing the simplicity and depth of Persian home cooking.

Ingredients

  • 600 glamb cubes
  • 1onion
  • 2 tbspolive oil
  • 1 tspcumin
  • to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

  1. Start by peeling and finely grating 1 onion into a large mixing bowl. This will help tenderize the lamb and infuse it with flavor. Add 600 g of lamb cubes to the bowl, ensuring they are cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
  2. Pour 2 tbsp of olive oil over the lamb and onion mixture. Sprinkle 1 tsp of cumin over the top, then add fine sea salt and black pepper to taste. Use your hands to thoroughly mix everything, ensuring the lamb is well-coated with the oil and spices. This step builds the foundational flavor of the dish.
  3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the lamb marinate at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the lamb to absorb the spices, enhancing its taste.
  4. While the lamb is marinating, preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are ashed over for even heat distribution. If using a gas grill, allow it to heat up for at least 10 minutes.
  5. Thread the lamb cubes onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking. Place the skewers on the preheated grill, turning them occasionally. Grill until the lamb is browned on the outside and cooked to your desired level of doneness. The lamb should have a slightly charred exterior and be tender and juicy inside.
  6. Once the lamb is grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from the grill. Immediately sprinkle a final pinch of fine sea salt over the hot skewers to enhance the flavors. Serve the skewers at once, encouraging diners to enjoy the dish while it's hot and aromatic.
Cover of Authentic Persian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Persian Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Persian Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Persian volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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