Grilled Meat (Meshwi) Recipe

Authentic Grilled Meat (Meshwi) Recipe

Introduction

Meshwi, or grilled meat, is a traditional dish in North African and Middle Eastern cuisine, known for its succulent, smoky, and perfectly seasoned meat. This dish is a favorite at barbecues, feasts, and family gatherings, featuring marinated lamb, beef, or chicken, grilled to perfection over an open flame or charcoal grill. The key to a perfect Meshwi is a rich marinade, slow grilling, and intense smoky flavor.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 2 pounds lamb chops, beef steak, or chicken pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For Grilling:

• Wooden or metal skewers (if using cubed meat)
• Charcoal or gas grill
• Additional olive oil for brushing

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and all the spices.
2. Add chopped parsley and cilantro, and stir well to form a thick marinade.
3. Add the meat (lamb, beef, or chicken) to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (for best results, marinate overnight).

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

1. Preheat your charcoal or gas grill to medium-high heat.
2. If using skewers, thread the meat onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
3. Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Meat

1. Place the marinated meat directly on the grill.
2. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side (for lamb and beef) or 6-8 minutes per side (for chicken), until the meat is charred and fully cooked.
3. Baste occasionally with extra marinade or olive oil for added flavor and moisture.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

1. Remove the meat from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with flatbread, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips for the Best Meshwi

• For the best smoky flavor, use charcoal instead of gas grilling.
• Marinate overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
• Use fresh herbs for a more authentic taste.
• Don’t overcook lamb or beef to keep them juicy and tender.

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