Zanzibari-style Grilled Meat Skewers

Ingredients

While the original Turkish Cağ kebabı uses a combination of Mediterranean spices, the Zanzibari-style Grilled Meat Skewers incorporate the unique flavors of Zanzibari cuisine. The addition of cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom in the marinade gives the dish a distinct aromatic profile, reminiscent of the spices commonly used in Zanzibari cooking. The grilling technique remains the same, ensuring the meat is cooked to perfection with a smoky char. We alse have the original recipe for Cağ kebabı, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) lamb or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) lamb or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (coriander), for garnish 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (coriander), for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 0g
• Protein: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the vegetable oil, minced garlic, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, ground cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well to form a marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the lamb or beef pieces to the marinade and toss until they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated meat onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece.
5. 5.
   Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. 6.
   Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
7. 7.
   Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro (coriander) and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lamb or beef — Choose lean cuts of meat for a healthier option. If using beef, opt for sirloin or tenderloin. Trim any excess fat before marinating.

Tips & Tricks

• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading the meat to prevent them from burning on the grill.
• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Serve the skewers with a side of Zanzibari coconut rice for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Zanzibari-style Grilled Meat Skewers hot, accompanied by a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. Drizzle with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added zing.

Presentation advice

Arrange the skewers on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves. Serve with a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.