Moscow Shashlik Coated Lamb

The Moscow Shashlik Coated Lamb is an enticing fusion of traditional Russian shashlik and aromatic lamb that captures the spirit of Moscow's rich culinary heritage. Shashlik, a form of skewered and grilled meat, traces its origins to the nomadic tribes of Central Asia, and over centuries, it has evolved into one of Russia's beloved street foods. Pairing this concept with lamb brings out a modern twist that marries the juicy tenderness of lamb with the flavors and authenticity of classic shashlik.

Ingredients for Moscow Shashlik Coated Lamb

• Lamb - one kilogram of boneless lamb shoulder
• Onion - two large onions
• Garlic - four cloves minced
• Olive Oil - half a cup
• Vinegar - quarter cup of apple cider vinegar
• Paprika - one tablespoon
• Cumin - one teaspoon
• Coriander - one teaspoon
• Salt - as per taste
• Black Pepper - one teaspoon
• Lemon - juice of one lemon
• Parsley - finely chopped for garnish

Preparation Instructions

Prepare the lamb first by trimming any excess fat and cutting it into approximately 1-inch cubes. Marinate the meat overnight to enhance the tenderness and flavor—a crucial step in achieving authentic shashlik results.

Marinade Mixture

1. Add olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper into a bowl, and mix well.
2. Cut the onions into thin rings and add to the marinade mixture, ensuring the flavors all mingle well.
3. Place the cubed lamb into the marinade and thoroughly coat each piece. Leave it covered in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight.

Cooking Process

Grilling: The grilling process is paramount for the lamb to get that smoky flavor reminiscent of traditional shashlik.

1. If you are using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Thread the marinated lamb pieces onto skewers, alternating each piece with rings of onion.
3. Preheat your grill to high heat. Oil the grates well to prevent sticking.
4. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for around 10-15 minutes, rotating every few minutes to ensure even cooking. Check the internal temperature or use a cooking timer to ensure thorough cooking.

Serving and Enjoyment

Once done, let the skewers rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the lamb, making each bite succulent and flavorful.

Garnish your Moscow Shashlik Coated Lamb with fresh parsley and a splash of lemon juice for an extra zing.

The Moscow Shashlik Coated Lamb is best enjoyed with traditional accompaniments such as fresh bread, a side of grilled vegetables, and pickled salads, bringing a warm and hearty taste of Moscow to your dining table.