Jujeh Kabab with a Fruity Marinade: A Sweet and Tangy Twist on a Classic Recipe

Discover the vibrant flavors of Jujeh Kabab with a fruity marinade that combines the richness of yogurt, the zest of lemon juice, and the sweetness of pomegranate molasses. Perfect for your next summer barbecue or family dinner!

Ingredients:

1 kg (2.2 lbs) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 2-inch cubes

1 cup plain yogurt

1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

1 tablespoon saffron threads, dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water

1/4 cup pomegranate molasses

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Skewers (metal or soaked wooden skewers)

Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, dissolved saffron, pomegranate molasses, minced garlic, ground turmeric, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to a large resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate and let the chicken marinate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for the best flavor.

Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking.

Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Grill the Jujeh Kabab: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through with no pink in the center.

Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the Jujeh Kabab hot with your choice of sides, such as rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

Unique Flavor: The fruity marinade adds a sweet and tangy twist to the traditional Jujeh Kabab.

Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for summer barbecues and outdoor gatherings.

Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a breeze.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can substitute chicken with lamb or beef, but the marinating time might need to be adjusted accordingly.

Q: Can I bake the Jujeh Kabab instead of grilling?

A: Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

Q: Where can I find pomegranate molasses?

A: Pomegranate molasses can be found in Middle Eastern grocery stores or online.

Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite of this Jujeh Kabab with a fruity marinade. Perfect for impressing your guests and bringing something new to the table!