National Dish United Arab Emirates: Mixed Grill (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Mixed Grill, a celebratory feast that gathers the best of Emirati flavours onto a single platter. Juicy lamb, tender chicken and spiced kebabs are cooked over open flames until smoky and succulent, then served with warm flatbread and generous dips. It captures the warmth of the restaurants and bustling markets of the Emirates, and with a little care you can bring the taste of the region straight to your own table.
About Mixed Grill
The Mixed Grill is a much-loved dish that brings together the flavours of the United Arab Emirates in one delicious combination. This traditional feast features juicy lamb, tender pieces of chicken and spicy kebabs, all grilled over an open flame. Every bite offers an unmatched taste experience that recalls the welcoming restaurants and markets of the Emirates. With the right preparation and well-chosen sides, you can bring the flavours of the Middle East home to your own kitchen.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 300 g lamb (such as lamb chops or fillet)
- 200 g chicken breast
- 200 g minced beef (for the kebabs)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh flatbread and salad, to serve
- Authentic dips such as hummus and tzatziki
Shopping for the ingredients
Shopping for the ingredients for Mixed Grill is an important step in making sure your dish turns out fresh and full of flavour. Visit your local market or a specialist butcher to find good-quality lamb and chicken. Look for meat that is fresh and well-marbled, as this makes for a better flavour off the grill. It is also worth choosing high-quality spices and dips so you can guarantee that authentic taste. A tub of good hummus makes a fine starting point for the table.
Preparing the dish
To prepare the Mixed Grill at its best, cut the pieces of meat to an even size so they cook through at the same rate. Marinating the meat beforehand intensifies the flavours and gives a more tender result. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and spices lends the meat a wonderful taste. Ideally, let the meat marinate for at least 1–2 hours; better still, leave it overnight in the fridge.
Step-by-step instructions
- Thread the marinated pieces of meat onto skewers.
- Preheat the grill and brush it with oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the skewers evenly across the grilling surface.
- Turn the skewers regularly to ensure even cooking.
- After about 15–20 minutes the skewers will be perfectly cooked.
- Remove the meat from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Mixed Grill with flatbread and dips.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
The Mixed Grill is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, as long as you take care with the sides. Avoid dips that contain dairy, or choose plant-based alternatives such as chickpea hummus. The flatbread can also be prepared in a gluten-free version so the dish suits everyone at the table. That way you can be sure every guest at your barbecue can join in.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
The Mixed Grill can be prepared just as creatively for vegans and vegetarians. Instead of meat, use alternative ingredients such as grilled courgette, aubergine or peppers, which can be marinated and grilled in exactly the same way. Tofu or seitan also make a tasty choice, especially when well seasoned. Together with colourful vegetables and traditional dips, the dish becomes a feast for every kind of palate. A plate of Khudar Mashwi is a lovely meat-free companion.
More tips and tricks
If you want to create the perfect Mixed Grill, make sure the meat is at room temperature before it hits the grill. This ensures even cooking. Use a well-preheated grill to achieve those characteristic char marks and to keep the natural juices in the meat. Experiment with different spices and marinades to add your own personal touch to the dish. And don’t forget to keep an eye on the meat as it cooks so it doesn’t overcook.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The Mixed Grill is wonderfully versatile and easy to tailor to personal preference. Vary the types of meat to suit your taste, or use seasonal vegetables to make the dish fresher and more varied. The marinade can also be modified to your liking — for example by adding chilli for a spicy kick or more herbs for a fresh aroma. Be creative and make this dish your own masterpiece.
Ingredient substitutions
If you don’t have some of the ingredients for the Mixed Grill to hand, there are plenty of alternatives you can use. Instead of lamb, try pork or turkey for a different flavour. For the marinade, other oils or vinegars are also an option for creating new tastes. Let your imagination run free and discover the combinations you like best. If you fancy pure chicken skewers, Shish Tawook is a natural next step.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of refreshing drinks pairs beautifully with a delicious Mixed Grill. Try a cooling minted yoghurt, which sits perfectly alongside the spicy flavours. Middle Eastern teas such as mint tea are another great choice and complement the flavours of the dish. For a special touch, you can also serve fruity cocktails or mocktails that harmonise with the tastes of the region.
Serving and presentation ideas
The presentation of the Mixed Grill can lift the whole dish. Arrange the grilled skewers on a large platter and garnish them with fresh herbs such as parsley or mint. Add colourful sides of grilled vegetables and serve the dips in small bowls alongside. This visual arrangement brings not only flavour but also joy to the meal. Be creative with the layout and use attractive tableware to set a festive table.
A bit of history
The Mixed Grill has its roots in Arabic and Mediterranean cuisine, where grilling has a long tradition. At feasts and celebrations it is often served as a symbol of the host and of hospitality. In the United Arab Emirates it is a popular dish found not only in restaurants but also at family gatherings and festivals. It embodies the culinary variety and rich history of the region, shaped by many cultural influences, and takes its place among the classics of Emirati cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Mixed Grill
The Mixed Grill is an essential dish that shows off the flavours of the United Arab Emirates to perfection. With its combination of different meats and spices, it becomes a feast for the senses. Whether you are planning a barbecue or simply want to prepare a delicious meal at home, this dish is sure to impress family and friends. Let its variety and flavour inspire you, and enjoy preparing your very own Mixed Grill!
