National Dish United Arab Emirates: Shish Tawook (Recipe)
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Meet Shish Tawook, a much-loved favourite from the United Arab Emirates built around tender, marinated chicken skewers. The chicken is steeped in a fragrant blend of garlic, paprika and creamy yoghurt, then grilled until beautifully charred and juicy. It is the kind of dish that turns any gathering into a feast, and it brings the warm, smoky flavours of the Gulf straight to your own table.
About Shish Tawook
Shish Tawook is a traditional dish from the United Arab Emirates that wins people over with its tender, well-seasoned chicken skewers. The pieces of chicken are steeped in an aromatic marinade of spices such as garlic, paprika and yoghurt, which gives them an incredible depth of flavour. It is prepared in homes and restaurants right across the Arab world and has become a firm favourite among food lovers. Grilling the skewers brings out the aromas perfectly, making them the highlight of any meal.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 500 g chicken breast fillet
- 3 tablespoons yoghurt
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Flatbread, to serve
- Fresh vegetables such as tomatoes and cucumber
Shopping for the ingredients
To make Shish Tawook you will want fresh, good-quality ingredients. It is best to buy the chicken breast from a trusted butcher or supermarket. Choose a creamy yoghurt to improve the flavour, and make sure the spices are fresh and of high quality so you draw out the very best aroma. Many of these staples are just as easy to find at a local grocer as they are on the shelves of an ordinary shop.
Preparing the dish
Good preparation matters before you start cooking. First, cut the chicken breast into even pieces so they cook through at the same rate. Next, combine the marinade of yoghurt, garlic, lemon juice and spices in a bowl. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 1–2 hours, or better still overnight, so the flavours have time to soak right in.
Step-by-step instructions
- Lift the chicken pieces out of the marinade and thread them onto skewers.
- Preheat the grill to a medium heat.
- Grill the chicken skewers for around 10–12 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Arrange the shish tawook with fresh flatbread and vegetables, then serve.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
To make Shish Tawook gluten-free or lactose-free, simply use gluten-free flatbread. Make sure the yoghurt is lactose-free, or reach for a plant-based alternative. Spices are usually gluten-free as long as they contain no additives. That way you can enjoy the dish completely worry-free, much like a well-made Falafel.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For vegan and vegetarian alternatives, you can swap the chicken for tofu or vegetable skewers. Marinate the tofu in exactly the same way as the chicken to keep the full flavour. Seitan also makes an excellent source of protein and grills beautifully. This way plant lovers can enjoy the aromas of shish tawook every bit as much as everyone else.
More tips and tricks
To make the flavours even more interesting, try experimenting with different spice blends. A version marinated with a pinch of saffron, for instance, adds a luxurious twist. It also helps to turn the skewers regularly as they grill, so they cook evenly and do not catch. Play around with different side dishes to make the dish your own — a fresh Fattoush is a great place to start.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Anyone can adjust the recipe to suit their own preferences. Like it hotter? Just add a little chilli powder to the marinade. If you prefer something milder, use less garlic or ease back on the stronger spices. You can also leave the marinade in the fridge overnight to make the flavours even more intense.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have a particular ingredient to hand, there are plenty of alternatives. Instead of yoghurt you could use quark or a plant-based yoghurt substitute. If you do not have a grill, the skewers can just as easily be pan-fried or cooked in the oven. That keeps the dish flexible and within everyone’s reach, a bit like an easy-going Hummus.
Drink pairing ideas
Plenty of drinks pair wonderfully with Shish Tawook and complement its flavour. A refreshing mint tea or a light Arabic beer both make excellent partners. A fruity cocktail or a simple glass of water with lemon round the meal off nicely too. The key is to choose a drink that harmonises with the dish rather than overpowering its aromas.
Serving and presentation ideas
The way you present your food can lift the whole dining experience. Serve the shish tawook on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or coriander. Add colourful pieces of vegetable to make the plate visually appealing, and use attractive serving dishes to enhance the meal from start to finish. A spread of Kebabs alongside makes for a generous table.
A bit of history
Shish Tawook has a long history in Arabic cuisine and is a symbol of hospitality. It is thought to date back to the Ottoman era, when cooks experimented with different meats and spices. Grilling holds a special place in many cultures, bringing people together around a shared meal. It is not only a dish but a part of the culture and tradition of the Arab world — one of the many treasures of Emirati cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Shish Tawook
Shish Tawook is a delicious and wholesome dish that captures the flavours of Arabic cuisine in the most wonderful way. With its tender texture and distinctive spices, it is an absolute must for any food lover. Whether you serve it as a main course or as part of a buffet, it is sure to please every palate. Try it for yourself and bring a little of the magic of the UAE into your own kitchen.
