Tender Pork Skewers

This recipe is perfect for those who love succulent pork skewers but aren't fond of vinegar. It utilizes a gentle marinade without overpowering flavors, allowing the natural taste of pork to shine. Ideal for summer gatherings or festive evenings, this dish pairs well with fresh salads or garden vegetables. The secret lies in the aromatic mix of dill and spices, complemented by the subtle sweetness of onions. Marinating the meat overnight ensures each bite is rich and bursting with flavor. Cooking these skewers over hot coals gives them a distinctive smokiness, while keeping them juicy on the inside. The preparation process is straightforward, making it suitable for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Whether you're planning a family barbecue or a friendly get-together, these pork skewers are sure to impress. Serve them with your favorite sides and watch them disappear from the plate!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 kg pork neck
Onions, in ample amounts
100 g soy sauce

Spices and Sauces

Salt
Sugar
Pepper (to taste)
Dill
3 tablespoons olive oil

Preparation Time

40 minutes (excluding marination time)

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Begin by peeling and slicing the onions into rings. Tip: Chewing gum while slicing can reduce tears significantly.
Place the sliced onions in a large bowl, which will also hold the pork for marinating.
Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of salt and 1 tablespoon of sugar over the onions.
Add 100 grams of soy sauce to the onion mixture.
Mix the onions, ensuring the salt and sugar dissolve and the onions release their juices, which will help in marinating the meat.
Chop fresh dill, including the thicker stalks for a more robust flavor, and set aside.
Cut the pork neck into larger chunks, ensuring they are sizable enough to stay juicy while grilling.
Add the chopped dill over the pork pieces.
Sprinkle the pork with pepper; feel free to use a spicy blend based on paprika for additional heat.
Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the pork and vegetables.
Use your hands to mix everything well, ensuring the meat is well coated with onions, dill, and seasonings.
Cover the marinating container and place it in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours.
Stir the mixture once during the marination period to ensure even flavor distribution.
When ready to cook, prepare a grill with hot coals.
Thread the marinated pork pieces closely onto skewers.
Grill over hot coals, turning occasionally, to ensure even cooking.
Use diluted white wine or water with squeezed lemon as a spray to control flare-ups from fat drippings.
Cook until the pork is tender and fully cooked, with a slight char for added flavor.
Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes to reabsorb juices.
Serve immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Tips

Substitution: Use chicken or beef for a different twist.
Smokiness: Add wood chips to the coals for enhanced flavor.
Tenderize: Letting the meat marinate overnight is crucial for tenderness.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
Protein: 25g
Fats: 15g
Carbohydrates: 5g

Variations

For a spicy kick, add chili flakes to the marinade.
Introduce a citrusy note by adding lemon zest.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside roasted potatoes and a fresh green salad.
Pair with a dry white wine or a chilled beer.

Best Places

Miznon - Known for its lively atmosphere and delicious street food, this place offers a unique twist on classic skewers. Location: King George St 30, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel.

Osteria Francescana - A three-Michelin-star restaurant with an innovative take on Italian dishes. Location: Via Stella 22, Modena, Italy.

Asador Etxebarri - Renowned for its grilled meats and unique smoky flavors. Location: Plaza San Juan, 1, Atxondo, Spain.

Barbacoa - Best known for its fire-roasted meats in a fine dining setting. Location: Calle Lincoln 13, Ciudad de México, Mexico.

Grillmarkaðurinn - A warm and inviting restaurant that specializes in Icelandic ingredients cooked over an open flame. Location: Lækjargata 2a, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland.

The Barbary - Offers moreish skewers with a Middle-Eastern flair. Location: 16 Neal's Yard, London, UK.

Yakitori Totto - An authentic Japanese grill experience with an extensive skewers menu. Location: 251 W 55th St, New York, USA.

Le Relais de l'Entrecôte - Famous for their steak frites, but their skewers hold their own. Location: 20 Rue Saint-Benoît, Paris, France.

El Papagayo - Known for creative fusion and grilled techniques. Location: Artigas 14, Córdoba, Argentina.

Suvla Kanyon - A chic spot for enjoying wines paired with expertly grilled fare. Location: Kanyon AVM, Şişli, İstanbul, Turkey.