Cretan Yoghurt Souvlaki
Background and History
Souvlaki is a popular Greek fast food consisting of small pieces of meat, and sometimes vegetables, grilled on a skewer. The dish is a staple in Greece and is known for its vibrant flavors and inviting aroma. The Cretan version of souvlaki incorporates yoghurt, enhancing its traditional flavor profile with a creamy texture that balances the spices and marinades used in Greek cuisine.
Cretan cuisine reflects the island's rich history, influenced by its ancient Minoan civilization and the varied cultures that have passed through its lands. The use of yoghurt in Cretan cooking is a nod to these influences, with dairy playing a significant role in the Cretan diet.
Ingredients
- Chicken - 500g of boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Yoghurt - 200g of plain Greek yoghurt
- Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
- Lemon - Juice of 1 lemon
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Oregano - 2 teaspoons of dried oregano
- Thyme - 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Cumin - 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Pepper - 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- Pita bread - 4 pieces
- Tomato - 2 tomatoes, sliced
- Onion - 1 onion, thinly sliced
- Cucumber - 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- Lettuce - A handful of fresh lettuce leaves
- Feta cheese - 100g of crumbled feta cheese
Preparation
Marinating the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the yoghurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Add the oregano, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
Add the pieces of chicken to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together for a more intense taste.
Preparing the Vegetables and Skewers
While the chicken marinates, prepare the vegetables. Slice the tomatoes, onion, and cucumber. Keep them aside in separate bowls.
Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Cooking Process
Grilling the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan on medium-high heat to reach the desired temperature for cooking. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers.
Place the skewers on the grill, cooking each side for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a slightly charred exterior. Use a cooking timer to ensure accurate cooking time.
Warming the Pita Bread
While the chicken is grilling, warm the pita bread on the grill for about 1-2 minutes on each side. This will make it pliable and perfect for wrapping the souvlaki.
Assembling the Souvlaki
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skewers. Take a warmed piece of pita bread and add the grilled chicken pieces. Top with sliced tomatoes, onion, cucumber, lettuce, and crumbled feta cheese.
For extra flavor, you can drizzle some more yoghurt over the top or add a dollop inside before wrapping up the souvlaki.
How to Enjoy
Cretan Yoghurt Souvlaki is best enjoyed fresh off the grill. The warm, savory chicken pairs perfectly with the cool, refreshing vegetables and the creamy yoghurt, all wrapped in a soft pita. Serve with a side of your favorite Greek salad or some crispy fried potatoes for a complete meal.
For an authentic experience, pair your meal with a glass of traditional Greek or Cretan wine, enjoying the meal alfresco to mimic the lively atmosphere of a Greek taverna.