National Dish Saudi Arabia: Shish Tawook (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Shish Tawook, the pride of Saudi Arabia’s grilling tradition! These juicy, spice-laden chicken skewers are marinated in a tangy blend of yoghurt, lemon juice and warming spices before they meet the flames. The result is tender, aromatic meat with a lightly charred edge that captures the generous spirit of Saudi hospitality. Fire up the grill and bring a taste of Arabian feasting straight to your own table.
About Shish Tawook
Shish Tawook is a traditional grilled dish from the Middle East that is especially beloved across Saudi Arabia. At its heart is marinated chicken, threaded onto skewers and cooked over an open flame until succulent. The marinade is a delicious mixture of yoghurt, lemon juice and an assortment of spices that lends the meat a juicy, fragrant character. The preparation takes a little patience, since marinating deepens the flavours, but the end result is a genuine taste sensation every single time.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 400 g chicken breast fillet
- 150 g yoghurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil, for grilling
- Fresh vegetables (peppers, onion, tomatoes), to serve
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for shish tawook are available in almost any supermarket. Be sure to buy fresh chicken breast fillets for the best possible flavour. Spices such as cumin, coriander and paprika can be found in most grocery shops or in a well-stocked Middle Eastern grocery. It is also worth choosing a good-quality yoghurt, as this has a decisive influence on how the marinade turns out.
Preparing the dish
The right preparation is the key to a successful shish tawook. First of all, cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes, which makes both marinating and grilling easier. Next, prepare the marinade from yoghurt, lemon juice, garlic and spices. Leave the chicken to soak in this marinade for at least 2–3 hours, though ideally overnight, so it takes on the aromas as fully as possible.
Step-by-step instructions
- Cut the chicken into cubes and place it in a bowl.
- Mix the yoghurt, lemon juice, garlic and spices together in a separate bowl.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken and combine everything thoroughly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours.
- Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers.
- Preheat the grill to a medium heat and cook the skewers for around 10–15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve the skewers hot with fresh vegetables and garlic sauce.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Shish tawook is effortlessly made gluten-free and lactose-free. Instead of cow’s-milk yoghurt, you can use lactose-free yoghurt or a plant-based alternative such as coconut yoghurt. Take care with the spices, too, as some blends can contain gluten. By choosing gluten-free sides or dips, the dish remains completely gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegans and vegetarians need not miss out on shish tawook either! An excellent alternative is to use tofu or tempeh, which can be marinated and grilled in exactly the same way. Alternatively, you can reach for grilled vegetables such as courgette, aubergine or peppers, which make for an equally delicious and hearty option. These satisfying variations offer not only great flavour but also valuable nutrients from plant-based sources.
More tips and tricks
To draw the full flavour out of your shish tawook, brush the skewers lightly with olive oil before grilling. This not only encourages lovely browning but also helps stop the meat sticking to the grill bars. A handy tip: thread a few pieces of onion or pepper between the chicken cubes on the skewers to build up extra layers of aroma. Let your creativity run free and experiment with different spices or marinades!
Adapting the recipe to your taste
One of the lovely things about shish tawook is how versatile the ingredients are, making it easy to adjust to taste. If you prefer things spicier, you can work chilli powder or fresh chilli into the marinade. For a sweeter note, a touch of honey or maple syrup does the trick. You might also consider using different meats, such as lamb or beef, or even vegan options — much like the grilled variety you would find in a plate of Dajaj Mashwi — celebrating global food culture on your plate.
Ingredient substitutions
If certain ingredients are unavailable or you fancy trying something new, there are plenty of alternatives. You can simply swap the yoghurt for plant-based yoghurt if you want to avoid lactose. For a gluten-free marinade, leave out any soy sauce. Experiment with different fruit or vegetable additions in the marinade to discover new flavours!
Drink pairing ideas
The perfect companion to shish tawook is a refreshing drink that complements the dish’s aromas. A fruity cocktail or a cooling mint drink rounds off the flavours beautifully and lightens the mood of a barbecue. For non-alcoholic options, an Arabian iced tea or minty lemon water is refreshing and invigorating. These drinks are not only delicious but also help create a sociable atmosphere around the table.
Serving and presentation ideas
The presentation of your shish tawook should be a real feast for the eyes. Serve the skewers on a large platter to show off the colours of the ingredients, and garnish them with fresh coriander or parsley. Alongside, offer a bowl of garlic sauce, which not only tastes wonderful but also brings out the colours of your dish. Add fresh vegetables such as tomatoes and cucumber as a side to keep the plate lively and inviting — this is the kind of spread that defines Saudi Arabian cuisine.
A bit of history
Shish tawook has its roots in Arabian cooking and stands as a symbol of the variety and richness of Middle Eastern cuisine. Traditionally the dish is prepared for celebrations and family gatherings, and the cooking itself is often seen as a social activity. Age-old recipes have been handed down over generations, and each region has its own version with special local spices. This history and origin make the dish not just a culinary pleasure but an experience that reflects the culture of Saudi Arabia.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Shish Tawook
Shish tawook is a wonderful dish that lets you experience the flavours of Saudi Arabia in your own home. With its juicy, marinated chicken skewers and the freedom to adapt the recipe to personal preference, it wins hearts through both taste and versatility. Whether as the star of a barbecue or as a hearty family meal, shish tawook is a culinary discovery that is sure to delight your guests. See for yourself just how good this dish is and bring a piece of Arabian food culture to your table!
