Pork Neck Skewers with Linden Tea Marinade

This delightful dish features succulent pork neck marinated in aromatic linden tea, a touch of birch syrup, and lemon zest. With roots in traditional Eastern European cooking, these pork skewers are a flavorful treat that deserves space on your barbecue roster. Combining the sweet and tangy flavors of honey and lemon juice with the distinct floral notes of linden tea, this dish creates a memorable meal for any gathering. The preparation process involves marinating the pork overnight for tenderness and depth of flavor, while the grilling method adds a smoky finish. These skewers make a perfect match with a dark lager beer, amplifying the dish’s rich flavors. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, these skewers are versatile enough to suit any outdoor occasion. Lovers of pork will appreciate the juicy texture and flavorful marinade that captivates the senses. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a culinary novice, this recipe is straightforward and effective. Enjoy these skewers alongside recommended accompaniments for an unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 kg pork neck
2 handfuls of linden tea
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon honey
Birch syrup
Salt

Preparation Time

Total time: 12 hours (includes marinating and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: Begin by placing the linden tea in a large bowl, suitable for marinating. Pour hot water over the tea and let it steep thoroughly before cooling completely.
Marinate the Pork: Once the tea has cooled, cut the pork neck into small chunks and immerse them in the tea. Enhance the marinade with honey and fresh lemon juice.
Allow to Marinate: Cover the bowl and let the pork marinate overnight in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to tenderize.
Heat the Grill: Preheat your grill to a high temperature, ensuring the grates are clean.
Avoid Early Salting: Only add salt at the moment of grilling. Early salting can draw out moisture, making the meat dry.
Prepare the Skewers: Skewer the marinated pork cubes evenly, ensuring they are not too tightly packed for even cooking.
Grill the Pork: Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook them, turning occasionally, until the pork is well-charred on the outside and cooked through, roughly 10-15 minutes.
Finish with Birch Syrup: Upon serving, drizzle a few drops of birch syrup over the cooked skewers to enhance their natural sweetness.
Pair with Beer: Complement the dish with a lager-style dark beer to draw out the dish's savory and sweet elements.
Serve and Enjoy: Present the skewers with your choice of sides; enjoy the blend of flavors and the tender juiciness of the pork.

Tips

Substitution: If linden tea is unavailable, use a mild floral tea as a substitute.
Even Marinading: Ensure the meat is well-coated with marinade for maximum flavor infusion.
Grilling Technique: Maintain medium-high heat for an ideal balance between char outside and tenderness inside.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Protein: 30g
Fats: 25g
Carbs: 10g

Variations

For a Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or fresh peppercorns to the marinade.
Vegetarian Option: Use firm tofu or tempeh in place of pork and adjust marinating time to 1 hour.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Serve with grilled vegetables or a cold cucumber-dill salad.
Garnishes: Fresh parsley or a dollop of creamy yogurt sauce adds a fresh, tangy contrast.

Best Places

River Cafe – A picturesque spot along the river, known for its exquisite grill dishes. Location: 1 Water Street, Brooklyn, USA.
Grill House – Offers a unique twist on classic skewers with various marinades. Location: 123 King St, Melbourne, Australia.
Skewers & Co. – Known for its authentic take on traditional skewers. Location: 90 Queenway, London, UK.
Bistro on Main – A sophisticated restaurant offering a modern take on skewered meats. Location: 22 Main St, Toronto, Canada.
Charcoal & Ember – Trendy eatery spotlighting bold flavors in its grilled cuisine. Location: 118 Orchard St, Singapore.
Riverside Grill – Combines riverside views with remarkable skewer dishes. Location: 5 Riverside Alley, Munich, Germany.
Urban Taste – Known for its innovative skewers and fusion cuisine. Location: 48 City Rd, Cape Town, South Africa.
Alpine Eats – Celebrated for its Alpine-style skewers, bursting with flavor. Location: 7 Mountain Way, Zurich, Switzerland.
Culinary Corner – Offers a diverse menu with a focus on skewered delights. Location: 77 Culinary Lane, Los Angeles, USA.
Mediterranean Flavors – Specializes in Mediterranean-style skewers, full of aromatic seasonings. Location: 34 Coastal Ave, Athens, Greece.