Shawarma-ish Short Rib Kebabs

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Have you ever craved the flavors of a delicious shawarma but wanted something a little different?

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Shawarma-ish Short Rib Kebabs
Servings
4

Method

  1. In a large bowl, combine the zest of 1 large lemon, 4 finely grated large garlic cloves, 1 cup mayonnaise, 1 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt, and 2 tsp. fresh lemon juice by whisking them together. Season the yogurt sauce with kosher salt.

  2. Transfer ½ cup of the sauce to a small bowl and chill it until you're ready to serve the kebabs.

  3. In the same large bowl, whisk together 2 Tbsp. double-concentrated tomato paste, 1 Tbsp. ground coriander, 1 tsp. ground turmeric, ½ tsp. cayenne pepper, ½ tsp. ground cumin, 3 Tbsp. vegetable oil, 2 tsp. Diamond Crystal or 1¼ tsp. Morton kosher salt, and the remaining 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice into the remaining yogurt sauce.

  4. Add 2 lb. boneless beef short ribs, cut into ½ cubes, to the sauce in the large bowl. Toss the meat to coat it with the sauce. Cover and chill the mixture for at least 1 hour, preferably up to 12 hours.

  5. Prepare a grill for medium-high heat and oil the grate.

  6. Remove the short ribs from the marinade, letting any excess drip back into the bowl. Thread the meat onto skewers, spacing them slightly apart for airflow while grilling. Lightly

About this recipe

Have you ever craved the flavors of a delicious shawarma but wanted something a little different? Look no further than these mouthwatering Shawarma-ish Short Rib Kebabs! Packed with all the savory goodness of traditional shawarma, these kebabs take things up a notch by using succulent short ribs as the star ingredient. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds begging for more!

Why Short Ribs?

Short ribs are the perfect choice for these kebabs because they offer a rich, melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that is hard to resist. Just like a perfectly cooked shawarma, the short ribs become tender and juicy when marinated in a blend of fragrant spices. As they cook on the grill, the flavors intensify, resulting in a truly unforgettable dining experience.

The Marination Magic

The key to achieving that shawarma-like flavor is in the marination. A tantalizing blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, and garlic infuse the short ribs, giving them a deep, aromatic profile. For an extra kick, you can even add a touch of cayenne pepper or chili powder. Allow the short ribs to marinate for at least a few hours, or better yet, overnight, to let the flavors work their magic.

Grilling to Perfection

Once the short ribs have soaked up all the delicious flavors, it's time to fire up the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Carefully thread the marinated short ribs onto skewers, ensuring each piece is evenly spaced. Place the kebabs on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping once halfway through. The result? Tender, charred perfection that will have you drooling.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Shawarma-ish Short Rib Kebabs are cooked to perfection, it's time to serve them up and enjoy! Serve them alongside warm pita bread, fluffy basmati rice, or a refreshing salad. Top with a dollop of tangy tzatziki sauce or a drizzle of creamy tahini dressing for an extra burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different cut of meat for these kebabs?

While short ribs are the star of this dish, you can certainly experiment with other cuts of meat like chicken, beef, or even tofu.

Can I make these kebabs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the short ribs ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you're ready to grill.

Can I cook these kebabs in the oven?

Although grilling adds a smoky flavor, you can definitely cook these kebabs in the oven. Simply preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning once.

Can I freeze the marinated short ribs?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated short ribs for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before grilling.

Can I use store-bought shawarma seasoning?

If you're short on time, store-bought shawarma seasoning can be a great alternative. Just make sure to check the ingredients for any allergens or additives.

Can I make these kebabs vegetarian-friendly?

Absolutely! Replace the short ribs with marinated tofu or your favorite vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version of these kebabs.

Can I add extra vegetables to the kebabs?

Of course! Feel free to add colorful bell peppers, onions, or even cherry tomatoes to the skewers for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

What other toppings can I add to the kebabs?

Get creative with your toppings! Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an added touch of freshness.

In conclusion, these Shawarma-ish Short Rib Kebabs are a delightful twist on the classic shawarma. With succulent short ribs marinated to perfection and grilled to tender, juicy perfection, these kebabs are sure to impress. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a flavorful meal, these kebabs will transport you to shawarma heaven. So fire up the grill, gather your favorite toppings, and get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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