Arbëreshë-inspired Lamb Skewers with Apricots and Herbs

Ingredients

In this Arbëreshë adaptation, we incorporate the traditional flavors and grilling techniques of the Arbëreshë cuisine. The original South African sosatie typically includes ingredients like curry powder and chutney, which are replaced in this recipe with Arbëreshë spices like oregano and thyme. Additionally, the original sosatie uses dried fruits like raisins, while we opt for fresh apricots to add a burst of natural sweetness. We alse have the original recipe for Sosatie, so you can check it out.

• 1.5 lbs (680g) lamb, cut into cubes 1.5 lbs (680g) lamb, cut into cubes
• 10 fresh apricots, halved and pitted 10 fresh apricots, halved and pitted
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat: 22g (Saturated Fat: 6g)
• Carbohydrates: 10g (Sugars: 8g)
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Add the lamb cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Allow the lamb to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated lamb cubes and apricot halves onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating between lamb and apricots.
5. 5.
   Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb is cooked to your desired level of doneness and the apricots are slightly charred.
6. 6.
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
7. 7.
   Serve the Arbëreshë-inspired lamb skewers with apricots and herbs hot off the grill, and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lamb — Choose lean cuts of lamb for a healthier option. Trim any excess fat before marinating.
• Apricots — Select ripe apricots for the best flavor. If fresh apricots are not available, you can use canned apricots, but make sure to drain them well before skewering.

Tips & Tricks

• Soaking the wooden skewers in water before grilling helps prevent them from burning.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade.
• Serve the skewers with a side of tzatziki or a fresh herb salad for a refreshing contrast.

Serving advice

Serve the Arbëreshë-inspired lamb skewers with apricots and herbs as a main course alongside a side of roasted vegetables or a grain salad. Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the skewers on a platter, alternating between lamb and apricots for an appealing visual display. Sprinkle some fresh herbs over the top and serve with a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant touch.