Souvla is a traditional Cypriot dish consisting of large chunks of skewered meat, usually pork, lamb, or chicken, slowly roasted over a charcoal grill, typically called foukou.
The hallmark of souvla is the slow rotation of meat on long skewers over an open flame, allowing the fat to render and the meat to become tender and crispy on the outside. It’s typically seasoned simply with salt, pepper, thyme and oil.
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How to Grill the Perfect Souvla Dish with This Beginner Recipe
Description
Souvla is a traditional Cypriot dish consisting of large chunks of skewered meat, usually pork, lamb, or chicken, slowly roasted over a charcoal grill, typically called foukou.
Background and Origin
Souvla features larger meat cuts and a slower, more ceremonial cooking process. This method of grilling brings communities together during festivities and gatherings.
Souvla can be traced to ancient Cyprus and Greece, where grilling meat on an open fire was common.
The modern way of grilling souvla became popular in the 20th century. The meal is a symbol of outdoor celebrations, family gatherings and hospitality.
Ingredients
Marinade
Instructions
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How to Grill Cyprus Souvla
- Blend the oregano, rosemary, thyme, garlic, black pepper and oil.Â
- Wash the lamb and chicken and cut them into big chunks. Marinate the lamb and chicken in the blended mixture and keep in the fridge overnight.Â
- Cut and rub the lemon on the barbecue kebab skewer or metal sticks. The metal sticks are specifically used so the barbecue rotates clockwise or anticlockwise on the coal until it's grilled. You can get and use the Rotesserie kebab wheel.Â
- Arrange the marinated meat on the barbecue skewer. You can get the Rotesserie kebab wheel.
- Put some coal in a foukou or grill and set it on fire. Allow the coal to burn up into hot coals. Spread the coal evenly in the grill.Â
- Place the arranged meat and chicken on the grill, rotating them until they're cooked. When grilled, use a fork to remove the meat and chicken from the metal stick. Sprinkle some juiced lemon on the meat.
- Serve in lettuce leaves with some grilled potatoes and Tzatziki dip
Video credit– BBQbyLeo–YouTube
Note
Tips for Grilling Souvla
- Always marinate the lamb the night before for flavor. You can substitute other herbs of your choice.Â
- It’s best to use Joe Tisserie for your grilling.
- Serve souvla with side dishes of your choice.
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During a gathering of family members, friends, and loved ones, grill and serve souvla, drink wine, and listen to music. Remember to marinate the lamb or your choice of meat overnight.
Happy grilling!
