Kuban Platter

Introduction

The Kuban Platter is a vibrant and flavorful dish originating from the Kuban region in southern Russia. Known for its rich and diverse ingredients, the Kuban Platter embodies the region's agricultural bounty and cultural fusion. This dish is a colorful assortment of grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and zesty sauces, reflecting the culinary traditions of the Cossacks and the bountiful harvests of the Kuban River basin.

Ingredients

• Lamb - 500g, boneless and cut into cubes
• Chicken thighs - 500g, boneless
• Pork - 500g, boneless and cut into cubes
• Eggplant - 2, medium-sized
• Zucchini - 2, medium-sized
• Bell peppers - 3
• Tomatoes - 4, ripe
• Onions - 2, large
• Garlic - 5 cloves, minced
• Paprika - 1 tablespoon
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Olive oil - 1/4 cup
• Wine vinegar - 2 tablespoons
• Parsley - 1/2 cup, chopped
• Cilantro - 1/2 cup, chopped
• Lemon - 1
• Yogurt - 1 cup

Preparation

Marinating the Meats

To begin, prepare the marinade by mixing olive oil, wine vinegar, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Divide the marinade into three equal parts. Submerge the lamb, chicken, and pork separately in their portions of the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Preparing the Vegetables

While the meats are marinating, prepare the vegetables. Slice the eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers into thick strips. Cut the onions into wedges and the tomatoes into halves. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Cooking Process

Grilling the Meats and Vegetables

Prepare your grill or preheat a grill pan. Grill the lamb, chicken, and pork until cooked through and charred on the outside, about 10 minutes each for kebab-sized pieces. Remove the meats from the grill and let them rest.Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the meat pieces and heat intensity.

Next, grill the vegetables until they are tender and have grill marks, which should take about 5-7 minutes per side. Pay close attention to prevent them from burning.

Assembling the Platter

Arrange the grilled meats and vegetables on a large platter. Sprinkle the parsley and cilantro over the top for a burst of color and freshness. To add zing, squeeze lemon juice over the arrangement.

Enjoying the Kuban Platter

Serve the Kuban Platter with a side of yogurt dip, which complements the spices of the meat and the smokiness of the vegetables beautifully. To fully enjoy this dish, pair it with a crisp white wine or a light, sparkling beverage that balances the dish’s rustic charm.

Whether shared in a large gathering or as a central piece in a family meal, the Kuban Platter brings people together, celebrating the rich heritage and flavors of the Kuban region.