Delicious Pork Skewers with Citrus and Herbs
This delightful dish comprises succulent pork marinated with fresh citrus, fragrant herbs, and aromatic spices, making it a flavorful and aromatic feast. The lemon’s tangy zest pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of dill and green onions, creating an irresistible aroma. Perfect for outdoor grilling, these skewers are a hit at barbecues, offering a unique twist on traditional shashlik. The apple juice and vinegar lend the pork a tender, juicy texture while adding depth to the flavor profile. They are simple to prepare yet deliver an impressive culinary experience when enjoyed with a group of friends or family. The cooking method ensures the pork remains moist and flavorful, offering a perfect balance of acidity, sweetness, and spice. Whether you're an experienced chef or a home cook looking to impress, these pork skewers are a must-try. The longer marinade process enhances the flavors, making the skewers even more delectable. Relish these skewers on a sunny day and experience a delightful burst of flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 kg pork
- 5 - 6 large onions
- 2 - 3 lemons
- Fresh dill
- Green onions
- Apple juice
Spices and Sauces
- Salt
- Vinegar
- Black pepper
Preparation Time
Total Time: Approximately 24 hours and 20 minutes
Preparation: 20 minutes
Marination: 24 hours
Step-by-Step Instruction
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Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by slicing the pork into uniform cubes for even cooking. Peel and slice the onions into rings.
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Juice the Citrus: Squeeze the juice from the lemons, ensuring there are no seeds, and set aside for later use.
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Chop the Aromatics: Finely chop the fresh dill and green onions. This will add a layer of freshness to the marinade.
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Create the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork cubes, onions, lemon juice, dill, and green onions.
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Add Apple Juice and Vinegar: Pour in the apple juice and 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar, mixing well to coat all ingredients.
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Season Generously: Sprinkle the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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Thorough Mixing: Using your hands or a large spoon, thoroughly mix all the ingredients. Ensure every piece of pork is well-coated with the marinade.
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Marination: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and let the pork marinate in the refrigerator for a full 24 hours. This step is crucial for infusing the pork with all the flavors.
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Skewer the Pork: The next day, thread the marinated pork onto metal or soaked wooden skewers, alternating with onion rings for enhanced flavor.
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Preheat the Grill: Light the barbecue and let it reach a medium-high heat for optimal grilling conditions.
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Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking.
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Monitor the Heat: Keep an eye on the skewers to avoid burning, adjusting the heat if necessary.
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Cook Until Done: Grill the skewers until the pork is fully cooked, showing a nice char on the edges, while still juicy inside.
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Rest the Skewers: Let the skewers rest for a few minutes post-cooking—this helps juice redistribution for maximum tenderness.
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Serving: Serve warm, garnished with extra dill or a splash of fresh lemon juice for a zesty finish.
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Pairing Suggestions: These skewers pair well with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
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Clean-Up: After grilling, ensure your grill is cleaned to maintain its condition and ready for next time.
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Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, best consumed within a day or two.
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Reheating: Reheat gently to avoid drying out—either in a microwave or lightly re-grilled.
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Enjoy: Relish the succulent flavors and texture, sure to please your taste buds.
Tips
- Substitutions: Substitute lemon with lime or apple juice with orange juice for a different flavor profile.
- Tenderizing: Adding a bit more vinegar can help tenderize tougher cuts of pork.
- Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a different aroma.
Nutrition
- Calories: 290 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
Variations
- Keto-Friendly: Replace apple juice with a sugar-free version.
- Herb Variations: Use rosemary or thyme for a different herbaceous taste.
- Spice it Up: Add chili flakes or paprika for some heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a tomato-cucumber salad.
- Serve alongside a loaf of crusty bread and dipping sauces.
- Complement with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade.
Best Places
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The Grill House - Renowned for its savory skewers and vibrant atmosphere.
Location: 123 Food Street, New York, USA -
Barbecue Haven - Known for perfectly charred skewers and delectable sides.
Location: 456 Cook Avenue, London, UK -
Flavor Pit BBQ - Offers a variety of skewered meats with signature marinades.
Location: 789 Gourmet Road, Sydney, Australia -
Skewer Spot - Famous for its traditional and modern twists on classic skewers.
Location: 101 Delicious Lane, Paris, France -
Char Masters - Features an extensive menu of grilled specialties and fresh herbs.
Location: 202 Taste Plaza, Los Angeles, USA -
Kabob Corner - A delightful place for spicy and flavorful skewered dishes.
Location: 303 Spice Street, Istanbul, Turkey -
Grill & Chill - Combines relaxation with culinary excellence in their skewer offerings.
Location: 404 Leisure Avenue, Cape Town, South Africa -
Fire & Feast - Specializes in gourmet skewers with unique spice blends.
Location: 505 Dining Boulevard, Tokyo, Japan -
Meat & Meet - Offers cozy seating with a focus on top-quality grilled skewers.
Location: 606 Social Square, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil -
The Skewer Chef - Known for surprise flavor innovations in their marinating process.
Location: 707 Culinary Circle, Mumbai, India
Enjoy making and savoring these delicious pork skewers with citrus and herbs.