pork skewers

Pork Skewers – a delicious and flavorful recipe, perfect for warm days spent with friends and family. This recipe, inspired by the culinary traditions of cultures rich in flavors and aromas, will bring you joy in every bite. Let’s discover together how to prepare juicy and tasty pork skewers, ideal for any barbecue or picnic!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 10-12 hours (can be left up to 36 hours)
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Total: 10-12 hours (including marinating time)
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 2 kg pork (preferably shoulder, for juiciness)
- 4 large onions
- 1 glass of dry wine (approximately 250 ml)
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground pepper
- Mineral water (enough to cover the meat)
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 5 bay leaves
- 6-8 allspice berries

A bit of history
Skewers have a rich and varied history, with deep roots in the culinary tradition of several cultures. They are often associated with moments of socializing and fun, being a staple at summer barbecues or outdoor parties. Their origin can be traced back to mountainous regions, where meat was grilled on wooden sticks, and the smoky flavor of charcoal quickly became a favorite. This pork skewer recipe pays homage to these traditions, combining simple ingredients to create a truly tasty dish.

Preparing the pork skewers

1. Preparing the meat
Wash the pork well under cold running water, then dry it with a kitchen towel. It is essential that the meat is fresh and of good quality, so don’t hesitate to ask your butcher for advice if needed. Cut the meat into cubes of about 3-4 cm, so it cooks evenly on the grill.

2. Marinating the meat
In a bowl or pot with a lid, add the meat cubes, dry wine, salt, coriander, pepper, bay leaves, and allspice berries. Peel the onions and slice them into rings, then add them over the meat. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices. Top up with mineral water until the meat is completely covered. This will help keep the meat juicy during cooking. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for 10-12 hours; for a more intense taste and aroma, you can leave it for up to 36 hours.

3. Preparing the grill
When you are ready to cook, prepare the grill. Light the coals and let them heat until they are red and covered with ash. It is important that the embers are low, without strong flames, to prevent the meat from burning.

4. Assembling the skewers
Remove the meat from the marinade and gently pat it dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess liquid. Now it’s time to assemble the skewers! Alternate the meat cubes with onion rings on the skewers, leaving enough space between them to allow for air circulation and even cooking.

5. Cooking the skewers
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 20-25 minutes, turning them every 1-2 minutes. This will ensure even browning and a perfect texture. The skewers are ready when the meat is well cooked but still juicy. Avoid leaving them on the grill too long to prevent them from drying out.

6. Serving
Once the skewers are ready, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This step is essential to maintain the juiciness of the meat. Serve the skewers hot, optionally with fresh onion rings and chopped parsley, or alongside a spicy sauce or tkemali sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to experiment, try adding vegetables to the skewers, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These will add a touch of freshness and wonderful flavor.
- Make sure to soak the skewers in water for 30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- You can also use chicken or beef instead of pork, but cooking times will vary.

Nutritional benefits
Pork is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and essential minerals. It contains a considerable amount of vitamin B12, zinc, and iron, important for immune system health and metabolism. When prepared correctly, pork skewers can be a tasty and nutritious dish, ideal for an outdoor meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of meat for skewers? Of course! Skewers can be made with chicken, beef, or even fish.
- What are the best spices for the marinade? Besides those mentioned, you can also try garlic, cumin, or paprika for a more intense flavor.
- How can I keep the skewers warm until serving? A good solution is to wrap them in aluminum foil after removing them from the grill, keeping them warm and juicy.

Pork skewers are more than just a recipe; they bring people together and create unforgettable memories. So, go outside, light the grill, and enjoy a delicious meal with your loved ones! Bon appétit!