Russian-style Souvlaki

Ingredients

While the Greek Souvlaki traditionally uses pita bread as a wrap, this Russian-style Souvlaki replaces it with blini pancakes, a staple in Russian cuisine. The marinade is also adjusted to include Russian herbs and spices, infusing the meat with a distinctively Russian flavor profile. Additionally, the side dishes and drinks suggestions are tailored to complement the Russian culinary tradition. We alse have the original recipe for Souvlaki, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless chicken or pork, cut into bite-sized pieces 500g (1.1 lb) boneless chicken or pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried dill 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 blini pancakes (store-bought or homemade) 8 blini pancakes (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh dill, for garnish Fresh dill, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 3g)
• Carbohydrates: 10g (Sugars: 2g)
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, paprika, dried dill, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken or pork pieces to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated meat onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. 5.
   Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. 6.
   Warm the blini pancakes in a dry skillet or microwave.
7. 7.
   To assemble, place a blini pancake on a plate, top with a skewer of grilled meat, and garnish with sliced red onion and fresh dill.
8. 8.
   Repeat with the remaining blini pancakes and skewers.
9. 9.
   Serve the Russian-style Souvlaki immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Blini pancakes — If using store-bought blini, make sure to warm them up before assembling the Souvlaki. If making homemade blini, ensure they are thin and pliable for easy wrapping.

Tips & Tricks

• For added Russian flavor, serve the Souvlaki with a dollop of sour cream or smetana.
• If you prefer a smoky taste, grill the meat over charcoal instead of using a grill pan.
• Experiment with different meats such as lamb or beef for a variation in flavors.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice over the assembled Souvlaki for a refreshing tang.
• Serve the Souvlaki with a side of Russian-style potato salad for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Russian-style Souvlaki as a main course, accompanied by a side dish and a refreshing drink.

Presentation advice

Arrange the blini-wrapped Souvlaki skewers on a platter, garnished with fresh dill and thinly sliced red onion. Serve with a side dish and a drink suggestion.