Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup pindjur (Macedonian roasted red pepper and eggplant spread)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Special equipment needed:
- Grill or grill pan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together pindjur, olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add chicken cubes to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Thread marinated chicken cubes onto soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes + marinating time
- Cooking time: 8-10 minutes
Temperature:
- Grill or grill pan: medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pindjur can be substituted with any roasted red pepper spread or even tomato paste.
- Red wine vinegar can be substituted with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
- Smoked paprika can be substituted with regular paprika or chili powder.
Variations:
- Use different types of meat, such as beef or pork, instead of chicken.
- Add vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, or zucchini, to the skewers.
- Serve the skewers with a side of tzatziki sauce or hummus.
Tips and tricks:
- Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Make sure to leave a little space between each piece of chicken on the skewer to ensure even cooking.
- If using a grill pan, make sure to preheat it for at least 5 minutes before adding the skewers.
Storage instructions:
- Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place skewers on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve skewers on a platter with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro on top.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or cilantro
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of rice or quinoa.
Suggested side dishes:
- Greek salad
- Grilled vegetables
- Roasted potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the chicken is sticking to the grill, it may not be fully cooked yet. Wait a few more minutes before trying to turn it.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Pindjur is a traditional Macedonian spread made from roasted red peppers and eggplant. It is commonly used in Balkan cuisine as a condiment or ingredient in dishes.
Flavor profiles:
- Smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve skewers as a main course or as a party appetizer.
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Region: Balkan