Pork Skewers with Fresh Herbs
Pork skewers are a delightful dish that combines the succulent flavors of marinated pork with the freshness of dill and parsley. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy indoor grill day. The tender pork pieces are marinated overnight with a special herb blend that infuses deep flavors into the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and seasoned to perfection. The addition of onions provides a hint of sharpness that balances the dish, while a touch of vinegar adds a tangy twist. Whether you're an experienced griller or just starting, this dish is simple yet deeply flavorful. Serve these skewers with a side of fresh vegetables and a dash of tomato sauce for a complete meal. It's a recipe that will impress guests and satisfy the heartiest of appetites. Prepare to fall in love with this easy-to-make, mouth-watering meal that's sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 kg pork
- 4 large onions
- 4-5 tablespoons table vinegar
Herbs and Spices:
- A large handful of fresh dill
- A small handful of fresh parsley
- 2 packets Santa Maria herb marinade mix
Preparation Time
- Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes active prep, plus overnight marinating.
Step-by-Step Instruction
-
Prepare the Pork: Cut the pork into medium-sized chunks. Ensure they are small enough to soak up the marinade, yet large enough to stay moist during grilling.
-
Mix with Onions and Vinegar: Chop the onions into small cubes and add them to the pork along with the vinegar. This will provide a sharp contrast to the rich meat.
-
Herbal Infusion: Chop the dill and parsley finely. Mix these chopped herbs thoroughly with the pork, ensuring even coverage on all pieces.
-
Add the Marinade: Open the packets of Santa Maria herb marinade mix and gently massage them into the pork mixture. This step is crucial to guarantee that the flavors penetrate deeply into the meat.
-
Marinate: Cover the pork and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
-
Skewer the Meat: Next day, remove the marinated pork from the fridge and thread the pieces onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking.
-
Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to a medium-high temperature, ensuring it's properly oiled to prevent sticking.
-
Grill to Perfection: Place the skewers on the grill, turning occasionally, until each piece is cooked through and has a light char on the outside.
-
Check for Doneness: Ensure the meat is fully cooked but still juicy, avoiding a dry texture.
-
Serve: Present the skewers hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Ensure your dill and parsley are fresh for the best flavor impact.
- Marinate Longer: If possible, let the pork marinate for up to 24 hours for extra flavor.
- Grill Choices: Both charcoal and gas grills work, but charcoal provides a smokier taste.
Nutrition
- Calories: 340 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Fats: 18g
- Carbs: 8g
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Zest: Incorporate some lemon zest for a citrusy note.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute pork with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh garden salad.
- Serve alongside a creamy potato salad or coleslaw.
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as tzatziki or spicy aioli.
Best Places
- Katz's Delicatessen - Known for its legendary meats. Location: 205 E Houston St, New York, USA.
- Carnivore Restaurant - Famous for its unique meaty experiences. Location: 144 Nairobi Rd, Nairobi, Kenya.
- Mugaritz - Offers an innovative dining journey. Location: Aldura Aldea, 20, Errenteria, Spain.
- La Cabrera - Renowned for classic Argentine barbeques. Location: José Antonio Cabrera 5099, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- Hawksmoor Seven Dials - Celebrated for prime cuts of meat. Location: 11 Langley St, London, UK.
- Gado Gado Restaurant - Combines Indonesian flavors with global favorites. Location: Jl. Camplung Tanduk No.99, Bali, Indonesia.
- Heberer’s Traditional Bakery - Famous for its gourmet sandwich meats. Location: Am Römerhof 17, Frankfurt, Germany.
- Okonomiyaki Katsu - Offers unique flavored meats and sides. Location: 5-13-4 Minami Uonuma-shi Urasa, Japan.
- Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse - Known for all-you-can-eat meats experience. Location: 600 E Pratt St Suite 102, Baltimore, USA.
- Africola - Offers a unique take on traditional meats with African nuances. Location: 4 East Terrace, Adelaide, Australia.