Haiduc Skewers

Haiducese Skewers: A Delicacy on the Grill

Who doesn’t love the aroma of grilled meat, accompanied by fresh vegetables and a refreshing salad? Haiducese skewers are a perfect choice for a delicious meal, full of flavor and color. This simple yet characterful recipe is sure to become a favorite on your menu!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Marinating time: 2-4 hours
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 2-4 hours 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg pork (preferably shoulder or neck)
- 100 g corn flour
- 3 large onions
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 3-4 ripe tomatoes
- 3 teaspoons sweet paprika
- Sunflower oil (for drizzling)
- Ground pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)

For the marinade:
- Optional: herbs (oregano, thyme) or balsamic vinegar for a more complex flavor

Recipe Story:
Haiducese skewers have a rich tradition, being prepared on countless festive occasions. This recipe evokes moments of conviviality, friendship, and joy, often associated with outdoor barbecues where the aroma of meat and vegetables harmoniously blend. Whether it’s a family gathering or a party with friends, haiducese skewers turn any meal into a celebration.

Preparing the Marinade:
1. Start by cutting the pork into cubes of about 3x3 cm. It is important that the pieces are uniform to cook evenly.
2. In a large bowl, add the cut meat, salt, pepper, and sweet paprika. Mix well so that each cube is evenly coated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the meat marinate in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours. This step is essential to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Preparing the Vegetables:
1. Peel the onions and garlic. Dice the onion into small cubes and crush the garlic.
2. Wash the tomatoes and slice them. These vegetables will add freshness and flavor to the final dish.

Assembling the Skewers:
1. Remove the meat from the refrigerator and prepare the skewers. It is recommended to soak them in water for 30 minutes to avoid burning on the grill.
2. Start assembling the meat cubes on the skewers, alternating with pieces of onion and garlic. This will add flavor and make the skewers more interesting.
3. Once all the skewers are assembled, drizzle them with sunflower oil and coat them in corn flour. This technique will create a crispy, golden crust during cooking.

Grilling the Skewers:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat. A constant temperature is key to achieving tender and juicy skewers.
2. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally. The skewers are ready when the meat is well cooked and has a pleasant golden color.

Preparing the Salad:
1. In a large bowl, mix the diced onion, garlic, and tomato slices. Add salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will add a fresh and crunchy note to the dish.
2. Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Serving:
1. On a platter, place a bed of salad, and on top, arrange the hot skewers. You can also add a few slices of lemon for extra freshness.
2. Serve the haiducese skewers alongside a refreshing drink, such as lemonade or a pale beer.

Tips and Practical Advice:
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add spices such as thyme or oregano to the marinade.
- If you want a healthier option, you can use chicken or turkey. The cooking will be similar, but the cooking time may vary.
- Make sure the grill is well greased before placing the skewers to avoid sticking.
- You can also use vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini on the skewers to add color and nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, skewers can also be made with chicken or beef, keeping in mind that the cooking time will be different.

2. Can I make the skewers in the oven?
Absolutely! Preheat the oven to 200°C and cook the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through.

3. Is this recipe suitable for diets?
Haiducese skewers can be included in balanced diets, considering they are high in protein. Make sure to serve them with plenty of vegetables and a fresh salad.

These haiducese skewers are not only delicious but also bring a note of conviviality outdoors. Whether you prepare them for a family meal or a party with friends, they are sure to impress everyone. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent with your loved ones!