Shish Taouk is a traditional Middle Eastern dish consisting of tender chicken pieces marinated in a blend of yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and spices, then skewered and grilled to perfection. This dish has its roots in Lebanese and Syrian cuisine, where it's commonly served as a street food or part of a mezze spread. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps to keep it juicy and tender during grilling. Shish Taouk is often enjoyed with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad, making it a versatile and delicious option for any meal.

Ingredients:

- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes

- 1/2 cup plain yogurt

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- Juice of 1 lemon

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Olive oil, for grilling

Method:

1. In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper until well combined.

2. Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss until the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

4. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, dividing evenly.

5. Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.

6. Once cooked through, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

7. Serve the Shish Taouk hot with your favorite sides, such as pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!

Nutrition Value:

1. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb or 450g):

  - Calories: Approximately 820 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 160g

  - Fat: Approximately 18g

  - Sodium: Approximately 330mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 440mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. They also provide important nutrients like niacin, vitamin B6, phosphorus, and selenium.

2. Plain yogurt (1/2 cup)**:

  - Calories: Approximately 60 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 8g

  - Protein: Approximately 5g

  - Fat: Approximately 1.5g

  - Sodium: Approximately 50mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 10mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Yogurt is rich in calcium, probiotics, and protein. It promotes gut health, aids digestion, and supports bone health.

3. Garlic (3 cloves, minced):

  - Calories: Approximately 13 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 3g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.6g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Garlic is known for its potent medicinal properties. It contains compounds like allicin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Garlic may also help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

4. Lemon juice (Juice of 1 lemon):

  - Calories: Approximately 12 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 4g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.5g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Lemon juice is a good source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and aids in collagen synthesis. It also contains antioxidants that may protect against certain chronic diseases.

5. Ground cumin (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 8 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.4g

  - Fat: Approximately 0.5g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Cumin is rich in antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains iron, which is essential for transporting oxygen in the blood.

6. Paprika (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1.3g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.3g

  - Fat: Approximately 0.3g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Paprika is a good source of vitamin A, which supports eye health and immune function. It also contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and aid in weight loss.

7. Turmeric (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 4 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.8g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0.1g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help reduce inflammation, improve brain function, and lower the risk of chronic diseases.

8. Salt and pepper to taste:

  - Nutritional benefits: Salt provides sodium, which is essential for fluid balance and nerve function. However, excessive salt intake may raise blood pressure. Pepper adds flavor and contains antioxidants like piperine, which may improve digestion and nutrient absorption.

9. Olive oil (for grilling):

  - Calories: Approximately 120 kcal (per tablespoon)

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 14g

  - Sodium: Approximately 0mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 0mg

  - Nutritional benefits: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. It also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that support overall health.