Shashlik, a traditional dish originating from Central Asia, features skewered meat grilled to perfection. Typically served with bread and onions, it boasts a rich history dating back centuries.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg of meat (beef, lamb, or chicken)

- 2 onions

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Method:

1. Cut the meat into cubes, around 2-3 cm in size.

2. Slice the onions into rings.

3. Thread the meat onto skewers, alternating with onion rings.

4. Season the skewers with salt and pepper.

5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

6. Brush the skewers with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

7. Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and has a nice charred exterior.

8. Serve the shashlik hot with bread on the side.

This simple recipe ensures a delicious shashlik every time, perfect for a flavorful meal with friends and family.

Nutrition Value:

1. Meat (1 kg):

  - Calories: Varies depending on type and cut (approximately 2500-3000 calories for beef or lamb, 1000-1500 calories for chicken)

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Approximately 200-250 grams

  - Fat: Varies depending on type and cut (approximately 150-250 grams for beef or lamb, 50-100 grams for chicken)

  - Sodium: Varies depending on seasoning and marinade

  - Cholesterol: Varies depending on type and cut

  - Nutritional benefits: Rich source of protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Lean cuts like chicken breast provide lower fat content.

2. Onions (2 medium-sized):

  - Calories: Approximately 100 calories

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 25 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 2 grams

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Approximately 5 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: Negligible

  - Vitamins: High in vitamin C and B vitamins (particularly B6 and folate)

  - Minerals: Good source of potassium and manganese

  - Nutritional benefits: Onions contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. They also support heart health and may have cancer-fighting properties.

3. Salt and Pepper:

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Varies depending on usage

  - Cholesterol: Negligible

  - Nutritional benefits: Salt provides essential electrolytes, while pepper contains antioxidants like piperine, which may enhance nutrient absorption and improve digestion.

4. Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons):

  - Calories: Approximately 240 calories

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Approximately 28 grams

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Cholesterol: Negligible

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin E

  - Nutritional benefits: Provides healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which support heart health. The vitamin E content offers antioxidant properties.

When preparing shashlik, incorporating lean meat cuts, minimizing added oil, and seasoning moderately can enhance its nutritional profile while maintaining its delicious flavor.