National Dish Jordan: Shish Taouk (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Shish Taouk, one of Jordan’s best-loved grilled favourites! These tender, marinated chicken skewers are steeped in a bright blend of yoghurt, lemon juice and warm spices before hitting the grill. Smoky, juicy and endlessly moreish, they are perfect for a summer barbecue or a relaxed gathering of family and friends. Bring the aromas of a Middle Eastern grill straight into your own kitchen.
About Shish Taouk
Shish Taouk is a hugely popular national dish of Jordan that delights the taste buds time and again. These marinated chicken skewers win people over with their tenderness and the fragrant flavour that the special marinade brings. Classically they are prepared with yoghurt, lemon juice and a whole array of spices that gently coat the chicken. The dish is ideal for barbecue evenings and special occasions, when families and friends come together around the grill.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250g chicken breast fillet
- 2 tablespoons yoghurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh flatbread
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for the ingredients for shish taouk, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the chicken breast fillet. Fresh chicken gives the best result and ensures tender meat once grilled. The spices can be found in most supermarkets or specialist spice shops. Be sure to choose a good-quality yoghurt, ideally a natural yoghurt without additives, to achieve the very best flavour.
Preparing the dish
Before you start making shish taouk, gather and prepare all the ingredients. Cut the chicken breast fillet into even pieces so they cook uniformly. In a bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the marinade and leave the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight. This allows the flavours to penetrate deep into the meat and gives it a lovely tenderness.
Step-by-step instructions
- Coat the chicken thoroughly in the prepared marinade.
- Preheat an electric or charcoal grill and ready your skewers.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for around 10–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken, until cooked through.
- Serve with flatbread and the side dishes of your choice.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Shish taouk is easily prepared as a gluten-free dish, simply by making sure the flatbread you use is gluten-free. For a lactose-free version, choose a plant-based yoghurt made from a coconut or soya base. These alternatives also offer a creamy consistency and an excellent flavour that complements the marinade. Alongside the chicken you can grill vegetables such as peppers or courgette to add extra layers of flavour.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegans and vegetarians can prepare a delicious plant-based version of shish taouk. Instead of chicken, use tofu or seitan, which also marinate well and readily absorb the spices. It is worth leaving the plant-based product in the marinade a little longer to achieve more intense flavours. Serve the dish with fresh vegetables and a tasty Tahini Sauce dip to round off the experience.
More tips and tricks
To get the most out of your shish taouk, it helps to turn the skewers frequently as they grill. This way they cook evenly and develop a lovely, slightly crisp exterior. Adding onions or peppers to the skewers can improve not just the flavour but also the look of the dish. Remember to let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling, so the juices redistribute through the meat and the flavour becomes more intense.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Everyone has their own palate, and the shish taouk recipe is easy to adapt. Experiment with different spices such as cumin or coriander to suit your own preferences. The marinade can also be enriched with extra ingredients like honey or mustard to add a hint of sweetness. Don’t forget to work in some seasonal vegetables as a side to keep the flavours fresh, much as you would with a crisp Tabbouleh.
Ingredient substitutions
If you would rather not use a yoghurt base, try a vinegar-based marinade or a stock instead to lend the meat extra flavour. For a smoky note, you can work smoked paprika into the marinade. Be sure to reach for gluten-free flatbread if anyone in your family is sensitive to gluten. Substitutions like these help keep every member of the family happy and satisfy every taste.
Drink pairing ideas
For a successful meal with shish taouk, the right drinks are key. Refreshing drinks such as ayran, a salty yoghurt drink, pair perfectly with the marinade. Hibiscus tea or a minty lemonade are also ideal companions that underline the flavour of the dish. For alcoholic options, you can serve a white wine or a light lager, which pleasantly complements the spices of the dish.
Serving and presentation ideas
An appealing dish deserves an equally attractive presentation. Arrange the shish taouk skewers on a large serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or mint. You can also artfully arrange various side dishes, such as a vibrant salad or grilled vegetables, to emphasise the colours and textures. Small bowls of dips like Hummus or Baba Ganoush let guests mix the flavours to their own liking.
A bit of history
The roots of shish taouk can be traced back to the Ottoman era, when grilling meat became popular. The word “shish” refers to skewer-grilling, while “taouk” means “chicken”. Across the Middle East this dish is a favourite choice, available in many varieties and recipes. Its authentic flavour and reliable preparation make it an important part of Jordanian cuisine and of family celebrations.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Shish Taouk
Shish taouk is a delicate and aromatic dish that is treasured not only in Jordan but around the world. The combination of juicy marinated chicken, fresh spices and generous sides makes it an ideal choice for barbecue evenings and sociable gatherings. Whether you opt for a plant-based version or the traditional one, shish taouk is a culinary experience that will delight your guests. Give it a try yourself and bring a piece of Arabic culture into your kitchen!
