Cukgalas Shashlik with Zesty Marinade

Discover the savory delight of Cukgalas Shashlik with a tangy marinade that transforms simple pork into a flavorful feast. Originating from traditional grilling methods, this dish brings together succulent pork neck marinated with aromatic spices and vegetables. The combination of onions and chili peppers with a hint of cayenne adds a delicious heat, while vinegar provides the perfect balance of freshness. This dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings and can easily be prepared in advance, making it ideal for any festive occasion. The marinade ensures the pork remains juicy and tender, while infusing it with deep flavors that stand out on the grill. Whether you’re a meat lover or an adventurous foodie, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds. With its robust flavors, Cukgalas Shashlik is surely a crowd-pleaser. Let the marinade do its magic, and enjoy juicy, flavorsome kebabs that will impress everyone. Follow these simple steps and enjoy your delightful culinary creation!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 kg pork neck
• 2 onions
• 1 chili pepper

Spices

• 3 pinches of salt
• 1 pinch of sugar
• Cayenne pepper (to taste)

Sauces

• 2 tablespoons 9% table vinegar

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 2 days (marinating) + 25 minutes (preparation and grilling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the vegetables. Peel and slice the onions into rings, and finely chop the chili pepper, removing seeds if you wish for a milder spice.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced onions and chopped chili pepper.
3. Add 3 pinches of salt and a pinch of sugar to the vegetables. This combination helps to enhance the natural flavors.
4. Pour in 2 tablespoons of 9% table vinegar. This will add a sharpness to the marinade, making the pork deliciously tangy.
5. For an extra kick, sprinkle cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
6. Using your hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly, squeezing the onions gently to release their juices. This helps in the uniform distribution of flavors throughout the marinade.
7. Next, cut the pork neck into evenly-sized cubes suitable for skewering.
8. Add the pork pieces to the marinade mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
9. Combine the pork and marinade using your hands, for an even distribution of flavors.
10. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it. For best results, let it marinate for 48 hours.
11. When you’re ready to cook, prepare your grill for high heat.
12. Thread the marinated pork pieces onto skewers, alternating with pieces of onion if desired.
13. Place the skewers on the hot grill. Be sure to monitor the heat to avoid burning the skewers.
14. Cook each side for about 6-8 minutes, turning as necessary, until the pork is cooked through and has a nice char.
15. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for at least 145°F (63°C) for safety.
16. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
17. Enjoy your shashlik with your choice of sides or dipping sauces.
18. Important Tip: Your patience will be rewarded, as allowing the pork to marinate longer results in more intensive flavors.

Tips

• Substitute: If pork neck is unavailable, other tender cuts of pork will also work well.
• Resting Period: Allow the shashlik to rest for a few minutes after grilling to let the juices redistribute.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili and cayenne pepper for your preferred spice level.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbs: 5g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace pork with firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian alternative.
• Flavor Twist: Add a touch of smoked paprika for a smokier flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh cucumber salad or warm pita bread.
• Serve alongside a dollop of garlic yogurt sauce or a vibrant tomato relish.

Best Places

1. Nomad Barbecue - A haven for grilled delights with expertly seasoned meats. Location: 1234 Grill Lane, New York City, USA.
2. Grill House Delight - Known for its rich-flavored shashlik and cozy atmosphere. Location: 5678 Savory Street, London, UK.
3. The Skewer Master - Offers a delightful array of grilled skewers, perfect for any palate. Location: 91011 Kebab Plaza, Melbourne, Australia.
4. Taste of the East Grill - Famous for its cumin-spiced shashlik. Location: 1213 Spice Road, Dubai, UAE.
5. Charcoal Feast - A meat lover's paradise with an exotic menu. Location: 1415 Smoky Avenue, Cape Town, South Africa.
6. Grill & Grill - Delight in various shashlik styles with global influences. Location: 1617 Barbecue Blvd, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
7. Flame & Flavor - Perfectly charred and seasoned meats. Location: 1819 Sizzle Strip, Istanbul, Turkey.
8. Fusion Skewers - Combines traditional and modern flavors for a unique taste. Location: 2021 Grill Road, Mumbai, India.
9. The BBQ Loft - Elevates classic shashlik to a gourmet level. Location: 2223 Flavor Street, Tokyo, Japan.
10. Smoky Delights - Offers a traditional take with a local twist. Location: 2425 Smoke Lane, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.