Djiboutian Lamb and Vegetable Skewers (Shish Tawook)
Tender cubes of lamb marinated in a flavorful yogurt-based sauce with aromatic spices, then grilled on skewers with colorful vegetables. This dish is a popular choice for celebrations and gatherings.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Lamb shoulder(cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 1 cup Plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Coriander
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 large Red onion(cut into chunks)
- 2 medium Bell peppers(assorted colors, cut into chunks)
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
💡 Tip: Ensure all spices are well incorporated into the yogurt mixture. - 2
Add the lamb cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- 3
While the lamb marinates, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
💡 Tip: Soaking skewers is crucial for grilling. - 4
Thread the marinated lamb cubes and chunks of red onion, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes onto the soaked skewers, alternating ingredients.
💡 Tip: Don't overcrowd the skewers to ensure even cooking. - 5
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with olive oil.
💡 Tip: A hot grill sears the lamb and vegetables beautifully. - 6
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb is cooked through and vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
💡 Tip: Internal temperature for lamb should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare. - 7
Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier marinade, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- ✓Serve with Djibouti's traditional rice pilaf (Bariis) or freshly baked flatbread.
- ✓Marinating overnight will yield more intense flavor.
🔄 Variations
- Use chicken thighs or beef sirloin instead of lamb.
- Add zucchini or mushrooms to the vegetable mix.