National Dish Lebanon: Shish Tawook (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Shish Tawook, one of Lebanon’s most beloved grilled dishes! Tender cubes of chicken are bathed in a fragrant yoghurt, lemon and garlic marinade, then threaded onto skewers and grilled until lightly charred and juicy. Served with warm flatbread, crisp vegetables and a creamy garlic sauce, it captures the generous, sun-soaked spirit of Lebanese cooking. Bring the buzz of a Beirut grill stall straight to your own kitchen.
About Shish Tawook
Shish Tawook is a much-loved Lebanese dish built around tender, marinated pieces of chicken. These skewers are not only a treat for the palate but a true culinary experience, lifted by traditional spices. The marinade — typically a blend of yoghurt, lemon and garlic — keeps the chicken especially juicy and aromatic. Shish Tawook is usually served with flatbread, fresh vegetables and a delicious garlic sauce that rounds the whole thing off perfectly. It is a staple of Lebanese tables and a fine introduction to the flavours of the region.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 500 g chicken breast fillet
- 2 tablespoons yoghurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for the grill plate
- Fresh vegetables (e.g. tomatoes, cucumber)
- Flatbread
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for shish tawook, it pays to pick the freshest produce you can find. The chicken breast fillet should be as fresh as possible and from a source you trust. For the yoghurt, a plain natural variety with no added flavourings is ideal. Fresh vegetables such as tomatoes and cucumber not only give the dish a crisp bite but also make for a healthier, brighter plate.
Preparing the dish
Preparing shish tawook centres on marinating the chicken, which can take around 1–2 hours. Simply place the chicken pieces in the marinade of yoghurt, lemon juice, garlic and spices. As they rest, the flavours develop and the chicken turns tender and succulent. It is best to keep the marinade in an airtight container in the fridge so the aromas have the chance to work their way right through the meat.
Step-by-step instructions
- Cut the chicken breast fillet into evenly sized cubes.
- Mix together the marinade of yoghurt, lemon juice, garlic and spices.
- Marinate the chicken pieces for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.
- Thread the marinated pieces onto skewers.
- Preheat the grill or a grill plate to medium heat.
- Grill the skewers for about 10–15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve with flatbread and fresh vegetables.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Shish tawook is easy to make gluten-free and lactose-free. Instead of traditional flatbread, use gluten-free bread or a lettuce leaf to wrap the chicken skewers. For the marinade, reach for lactose-free yoghurt or a plant-based yoghurt as your base. These small swaps make a delicious dish accessible to anyone with a gluten or lactose intolerance, without losing any of the flavour.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegan and vegetarian versions of shish tawook can be made with tofu, tempeh or vegetable skewers. These options take on the marinade beautifully and offer a similar eating experience. Tofu should be pressed before marinating to remove excess liquid so it soaks up the flavours more readily. Vegetables such as courgette, peppers and mushrooms are also excellent alternatives, bringing a varied range of textures to the grill.
More tips and tricks
To get the very best from your shish tawook, it helps to leave the skewers on the grill a few minutes longer until they take on an appetising char. Take care not to set the heat too high, as this can burn the outside of the chicken while leaving the inside raw. For extra flavour, you can also thread a few pieces of onion or pepper onto the skewers. These add taste and give the dish an attractive look.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Shish tawook is an extremely adaptable dish. Depending on your taste, you can vary the spices and add chilli powder or coriander for a hotter note. The marinade can also be rounded off with honey or maple syrup to create a sweeter version. Try out different combinations to find the recipe that suits you best — much like the freedom you get with a platter of Mashawi mixed grills.
Ingredient substitutions
If some ingredients are hard to find where you are, there are always alternatives. Yoghurt, for instance, can be replaced with plant-based yoghurt alternatives, often made from a soya or almond base. For the lemon juice, lime juice works well too, adding a fresh, tangy note. Be creative and experiment with different options to make the recipe your own — the same spirit of improvisation that makes Kafta skewers so versatile.
Drink pairing ideas
Choosing the right drinks makes all the difference to the shish tawook experience. A cool sparkling water with lemon offers a refreshing balance. Alternatively, iced mint tea is an excellent companion to grilled food. For wine lovers, medium-bodied, fruity wines such as rosé or a crisp white are ideal for highlighting the dish’s aromas.
Serving and presentation ideas
The presentation of shish tawook can be just as creative as the cooking itself. Arrange the skewers on a large wooden board alongside a selection of dips such as hummus or a light garlic sauce. Scatter over fresh herbs like parsley or mint to garnish the plate and lift it visually. Add colourful pieces of vegetable for a vibrant spread that looks as good as it tastes.
A bit of history
Shish tawook has its roots in Lebanese cuisine and now enjoys great popularity around the world. Historically, the skewers were often sold at street food stalls and have long been a symbol of Lebanese hospitality. They reflect the flavours and ingredients of the region and are today a fixed part of many barbecues and celebrations across the Middle East. The dish is not just a pleasure to eat but a piece of culture and tradition — a true cornerstone of Lebanese cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Shish Tawook
Shish tawook is a delicious and hearty dish from Lebanon that delights the palate while bringing people together. With its array of spices and a straightforward method, it is the perfect choice for a barbecue. Whether you go for the traditional version or one of the many variations, shish tawook remains a highlight on any table. Let this dish work its magic and enjoy a taste of Lebanese culture on your plate!
