Miso-marinated Samarkand Skewers

The Rich Legacy of Samarkand Skewers

Welcome to a culinary journey through the heart of Central Asia, specifically the historic city of Samarkand, a cultural crossroads of the Silk Road. Today, we bring you a fusion dish inspired by the rich flavors and aromas of traditional Samarkand cuisine combined with a touch of Japanese influence through a delightful miso marinade.

Samarkand, located in modern-day Uzbekistan, is renowned for its vibrant markets, fragrant spices, and diverse culinary heritage. The region's skewers, known locally as shashlik, celebrate communal dining with their enticing aromas and char-grilled perfection. In this recipe, we take these iconic skewers to another level by infusing them with savory miso paste, which provides a unique umami depth. The result? A delicious fusion skewer that preserves the spirit of Samarkand while adding a contemporary twist.

Ingredients for Miso-marinated Samarkand Skewers

• Chicken - 500g of boneless chicken thighs
• Miso paste - 3 tablespoons of red or white miso
• Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Honey - 1 tablespoon
• Ginger - 1 tablespoon freshly grated
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon
• Sesame oil - 1 tablespoon
• Red bell pepper - 1 large, cut into chunks
• Yellow bell pepper - 1 large, cut into chunks
• Red onion - 1 medium, cut into chunks
• Skewers - If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using
• Cooking oil - For brushing the grill
• Scallions - 2, chopped for garnish
• Sesame seeds - For garnish

Preparing the Miso Marinade

The star of these skewers is undoubtedly the rich, umami-packed miso paste, which acts as the base of our marinade.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine miso paste, soy sauce, honey, freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. Whisk the ingredients together until they form a smooth, cohesive mixture.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and ensure that each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld. For best results, marinate overnight.

Assembling the Skewers

Create colorful skewers by alternating marinated chicken with vibrant vegetables.

1. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and get ready to thread them onto the skewers.
2. Begin by alternating the chicken pieces with chunks of red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion.
3. Ensure each skewer has an even distribution of chicken and vegetables.

Grilling the Skewers

Achieve a perfect char on your skewers by following these grilling tips, ensuring succulent and flavorful results.

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates with cooking oil.
2. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for approximately 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even grilling. If you're unsure about timing, refer to a cooking timer to keep track.
3. The skewers are ready when the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are slightly charred but still crisp.

Serving the Miso-marinated Samarkand Skewers

To elevate your dining experience, serve these flavorful skewers with an array of garnishes and sides.

• Garnish the skewers with freshly chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added nutty flavor.
• Pair the skewers with a light cucumber salad or a side of steamed rice to complement the deep flavors of the miso marinade.
• For a traditional touch, consider serving with a few bowls of fermented vegetable pickles enjoyed in many Central Asian cultures.

Savor these Miso-marinated Samarkand Skewers as you enjoy the melting pot of flavors, merging ancient Silk Road traditions with modern culinary innovations. Perfect for a summer barbecue or an elegant dinner with friends, this dish represents a harmonious blending of two distinct yet complementary culinary worlds.