Pork Skewers with Citrus Marinade

This recipe for pork skewers features a delightful citrus marinade that enhances the natural flavors of the meat. The dish is perfect for a family barbecue or a casual dinner with friends. The combination of lemon juice, garlic, and oregano offers a fresh taste, while the olive oil ensures that the meat remains juicy and tender. It's a simple yet delicious recipe that doesn't require complex techniques, making it accessible even to novice cooks. The preparation involves marinating the pork for a specified time to let the flavors meld beautifully. When grilled to perfection, these pork skewers offer a wonderful aroma and a burst of flavors in every bite. This dish is versatile, as it can be complemented with various side dishes, ensuring a complete meal for any gathering. To achieve the best results, follow the step-by-step instructions carefully and use the freshest ingredients available.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1 kg pork chops
1 lemon
25 ml olive oil (or substitute with regular oil)

Spices:

1 tsp salt
Black pepper, to taste
Oregano, to taste

Additional:

4 cloves of garlic

Preparation Time

Total time: 80 minutes (includes marinating and cooking time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Start by cutting the fresh pork chops into bite-sized cubes. This ensures even cooking and allows the marinade to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
Mince the garlic cloves or press them using a garlic press for a finer texture.
In a large bowl, combine the pork cubes with salt, a dash of black pepper, and the minced garlic.
Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the bowl, ensuring all meat pieces are coated with the citrus juice.
Add the olive oil, mixing everything thoroughly for about 5 minutes to ensure even distribution of the marinade ingredients.
Thinly slice the remaining half of the lemon and gently fold into the pork mixture.
Wrap the bowl with clingfilm or a lid and allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. For a more intense flavor, leave it for up to 24 hours.
Preheat your grill or barbecue to medium heat to prepare for cooking the skewers.
Thread the pork chunks onto skewers, allowing space between each piece for even cooking.
Place the skewers on the grill, turning occasionally to ensure all sides are cooked evenly.
Continue grilling for approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the meat cubes.
5 minutes before the skewers are done, sprinkle a small amount of oregano on top for added flavor.
Check for doneness by cutting into a piece—there should be no pink inside, and juices should run clear.
Once cooked through, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes to retain their juices.
Serve hot with your choice of side dishes or garnishes for a complete meal.
Enjoy the well-balanced flavors of citrus, herbs, and well-cooked pork in each bite.

Tips

For a different flavor profile, substitute lemon with lime or orange juice.
If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade.
Ensure the pork cubes are cut uniformly to promote even cooking.
Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Nutrition

Calories: 250 per serving
Protein: 27 grams
Fats: 15 grams
Carbs: 2 grams

Variations

For a spicy twist, add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Adjust the amount of garlic and oregano to suit your taste preferences.
Use chicken or beef in place of pork for different dietary needs or preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing side.
Serve with rice pilaf or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
Add a creamy yogurt dip on the side for extra richness.

Best Places

Smoke & Grill - Known for their exceptional grilled dishes. Location: 123 Barbecue Ln, Austin, USA.
Lemon & Thyme Bistro - Famous for citrus-infused recipes. Location: 45 Citrus Ave, Wellington, New Zealand.
Peppercorn Kitchen - Offers a variety of spiced and seasoned pork dishes. Location: 78 Spice Rd, Mumbai, India.
Grill House - Celebrated for their perfect pork skewers. Location: 245 Park St, London, UK.
Citrus & Smoke - A hit among citrus lovers. Location: 67 Orchard Blvd, Singapore, Singapore.
Sizzle Spot - Popular for their marinade techniques. Location: 23 Marinade Way, Sydney, Australia.
Herb & Skewer - Known for their herbal infusions. Location: 58 Herb St, Paris, France.
Garlic & Grill - Exceptional for garlic-infused dishes. Location: 92 Clove Ave, Rome, Italy.
Flame Grill - Praised for fast service and great flavors. Location: 100 Fire St, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Carnivore's Delight - A meat lover's paradise. Location: 5 Meat Ln, Cape Town, South Africa.