Pork Skewers with Hmeli Suneli

This delicious pork skewers recipe, enhanced with the aromatic blend of **hmeli-suneli**, is a delightful dish that's perfect for any barbecue or gathering. Originating from the Georgian and Caucasian culinary traditions, this mouthwatering dish combines succulent pork neck cuts with flavorful spices and onions. The marination process ensures that the pork absorbs the savory flavors of the spices, resulting in tender and juicy skewers. This dish is easy to prepare yet delivers exceptional taste, making it a popular choice for meat lovers. With just a handful of ingredients, it's an ideal recipe for those looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you're hosting a backyard cookout or a family dinner, these pork skewers are sure to be a hit. Pair them with fresh salads, tangy sauces, or even grilled vegetables to elevate the dining experience further. Enjoy the luscious blend of spices and the satisfaction of creating a hearty meal that brings people together. Dive into the simplicity and depth of flavors that this classic dish offers.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 kg pork neck (or other cuts with some fat)
• 1 kg onions

Spices

• 1 packet of hmeli-suneli spice mix
• Salt
• Pepper

Sauce

• Olive oil (quality one, but type doesn’t matter)

Preparation Time

Total Time: 10 minutes preparation, plus marination time

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork:

   • Cut the pork neck into skewer-sized chunks, ensuring they are large enough to remain juicy during grilling.

2. Onion Preparation:

   • Slice the onions into rings or half-moons, depending on preference.

3. Season the Meats:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork pieces and sliced onions.

4. Add the Flavors:

   • Sprinkle in the hmeli-suneli spice mix, salt, and pepper, ensuring even coverage on all pork pieces.

5. Oil Infusion:

   • Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the mixture. The oil should just lightly coat the ingredients to enhance flavor without overwhelming.

6. Mix for Uniformity:

   • Thoroughly mix all ingredients using your hands to ensure every piece of meat is coated with the spices and oil.

7. Marinate for Optimal Flavor:

   • Transfer the seasoned meat mixture into a dish, placing a heavy plate or a jar of water on top to press down gently.
   • Allow it to sit in a cool place for several hours. For best results, leave it overnight in the refrigerator.

8. Prepare for Grilling:

   • When ready to cook, remove the meat from the refrigerator and bring to room temperature while preheating the grill.

9. Skewer the Meat:

   • Thread the marinated pork pieces onto skewers, alternating with onion slices if desired.

10. Grill with Care:

    • Place the skewers on a preheated grill, rotating occasionally to ensure even cooking on all sides.

11. **Achieve the Perfect Se

ar:**

• Cook until the pork is nicely browned on the outside and cooked through inside.

12. Check for Doneness:

    • Ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked by checking that the inside is no longer pink.

13. Resting Time:

    • Allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes before serving to distribute the juices evenly.

14. Serving Delight:

    • Serve hot, paired with your favorite sides or dips.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use chicken or beef if pork isn't available or preferred. Adjust marination time based on the meat type.
• Oil Choice: Although the type of olive oil isn’t specified, going for a good quality one will enhance the flavor.
• Grilling Technique: Using charcoal gives an authentic smoky flavor, but a gas grill works well, too.
• Marination Tip: Longer marination (overnight) results in more flavorful meat.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
• Protein: 30g
• Fats: 25g
• Carbs: 10g

Variations

• Spice Mix: Experiment with different spice blends or add garlic for a twist.
• Vegetarian: Replace the pork with thick slices of eggplant or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• Sauce Addition: Serve with a yogurt-based dip or a spicy tomato sauce for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair with fresh cucumber and tomato salad, roasted vegetables, or baked potatoes.
• Beverage Pairing: Complement the meal with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade.
• Garnishes: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top before serving for a burst of color and flavor.

Best Places

1. Tbilisi Hills Restaurant - Known for its stunning views and authentic Georgian cuisine. Location: Kus Tba Rd, Tbilisi, Georgia.
2. Fire & Sky BBQ - A popular spot for expertly grilled skewers in a rustic setting. Location: Rustic Rd, Cape Town, South Africa.
3. Meat & Greet BBQ - Specializes in a variety of grilled meats with unique marinades. Location: Lane 2, London, UK.
4. Caucasus Grill - Offers a mix of traditional and modern Georgian dishes. Location: Silk St, Baku, Azerbaijan.
5. Grill Masters - Renowned for its succulent BBQ dishes with a twist. Location: Market St, New York, USA.
6. Spice & Fire - Elegant dining with flavorful dishes from around the world. Location: Boulevard Lorraine, Paris, France.
7. Zurich Meat House - Acclaimed for its attention to detail in every grilled piece. Location: Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich, Switzerland.
8. Seoul BBQ Hub - Fusion of Korean-style BBQ with global flavors. Location: Gangnam St, Seoul, South Korea.
9. Savory Bites Grill - Offers a wide range of grilled delights. Location: Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.
10. Hacienda BBQ - Traditional BBQ with a contemporary twist. Location: Calle Ronda, Madrid, Spain.

This guide offers a comprehensive approach to making delectable pork skewers with a uniqueness of hmeli-suneli, enhancing your culinary skills and delighting your palate.