Marinated Greek Lamb souvlaki
Why choose lamb for souvlaki?
Lamb is a staple in Greek cuisine, revered for its rich flavour and versatility. When prepared for souvlaki, the meat's natural tenderness and fat content make it ideal for absorbing the bold marinade flavours, resulting in skewers that are juicy and aromatic. Grilling the marinated lamb enhances its flavour, providing a smoky finish that's hard to resist.
Selecting the right ingredients
To ensure your souvlaki is authentically delicious, it's crucial to start with the best ingredients. Our lamb is sourced from top-quality, sustainable farms, guaranteeing a product that is not only flavourful but also ethically produced. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful Greek dish:
- Lamb: Shoulder or leg cuts, trimmed and cut into cubes.
- Marinade: Olive oil, lemon, garlic, and traditional herbs like oregano and thyme.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers and red onions, perfect for skewering with the lamb.
- Halloumi: This great grilling cheese gives a beautiful, salty accompaniment to your lamb souvlaki.
- Wraps: If you want to make souvlaki wraps, get high-quality wraps from your supermarket.
- Sides: Traditional souvlakis can be served with chips, tabouleh, hummus, and a range of other sides from the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
- 1kg Grange Meat Co. lamb shoulder or leg, cubed
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 large red onion, cut into chunks
- 2 bell peppers, any colour, cut into chunks
- Lemon wedges and fresh parsley for garnish
- 2 blocks of halloumi, if desired
Method
- Marinate the lamb
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the lamb cubes and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavours to meld.
- Prepare vegetables
Cut the red onion and bell peppers into chunks suitable for skewering. If adding halloumi, you can intersperse the veg and meat with the cheese.
- Skewering
Thread the marinated lamb cubes alternately with bell pepper and onion chunks onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to use to prevent burning.
- Cooking the lamb souvlaki
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb is cooked to your liking and the vegetables are charred and tender.
- Resting
Let your souvlakis rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute around the meat, preventing it from going prematurely dry.
Tips for perfecting lamb souvlaki
- For the best flavour, let the lamb marinate as long as possible. Marinating overnight will deeply infuse the lamb with aromatic herbs and spices.
- Ensure your grill is hot before adding the skewers to achieve a good sear on the meat, which seals in juices and flavour.
- Allow the cooked skewers to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every bite is succulent.
How to serve lamb souvlaki?
Serve your lamb souvlaki with warm pita bread, a dollop of tzatziki sauce, and a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal. Garnish the skewers with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving to enhance the dish's visual appeal and add a burst of fresh flavour.
When pairing drinks with souvlaki, consider refreshing beverages that complement the grilled and marinated flavours. A crisp dry white wine like Assyrtiko or a light rosé enhances the dish without overwhelming it, while a light lager or pale ale can balance the spices with their subtle bitterness. For a traditional Greek experience, serve chilled Ouzo or Tsipouro, which stand up well to the robust flavours. Non-alcoholic options such as sparkling lemon water or freshly squeezed lemonade offer a refreshing cleanse to the palate between bites of this flavourful dish.
Grange Meat Co.’s Marinated Greek Lamb Souvlaki recipe brings the vibrant flavours of Greece right to your kitchen. This dish is not just about enjoying a meal; it’s about celebrating the rich culinary traditions that make Greek cuisine beloved around the world. Prepare this lamb souvlaki for your next gathering or family meal and watch as it becomes a new favourite, cherished for its bold flavours and simple preparation.
