Pork Souvlaki Dinner
Two skewers of marinated pork served with rice, roast potatoes, Greek salad, and tzatziki.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Souvlaki's history stretches back to ancient Greece, where grilled meats on skewers were a common street food. References to 'obeliskos' (small skewers) appear in ancient texts. The modern souvlaki evolved over time, incorporating influences from Byzantine and Ottoman cuisine, with variations in meat and preparation methods.
Souvlaki is a staple of Greek cuisine and culture, representing both a quick and affordable street food and a comforting meal enjoyed at home or in tavernas. It symbolizes Greek hospitality and the importance of sharing food with family and friends.
Street Food Icon
Souvlaki is a quintessential Greek street food, readily available from vendors and takeaway shops throughout the country.
Social Gathering Food
Souvlaki is often served at casual gatherings and celebrations, reflecting the Greek tradition of communal dining.
Regional Variations
Different regions of Greece have their own variations of souvlaki, including different types of meat, marinades, and accompaniments.
Symbol of Greek Identity
Souvlaki is often associated with Greek national identity and is a popular dish for tourists to experience the local cuisine.
The Pork Souvlaki Dinner offers a balanced combination of savory, tangy, and refreshing flavors. The marinated pork provides a rich, meaty base, complemented by the acidity of the Greek salad and the cool creaminess of tzatziki. The rice and roast potatoes add comforting starchiness.
The pork is typically marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper, resulting in a savory and slightly tangy flavor profile. The Greek salad (Horiatiki) features fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, dressed with olive oil and vinegar, providing a burst of fresh, Mediterranean flavors. Tzatziki sauce, made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, and olive oil, offers a cooling and refreshing counterpoint to the grilled pork. The roast potatoes are often seasoned with lemon and oregano, adding a citrusy and earthy note. The rice is often simply cooked, allowing it to act as a neutral base.
Marinating Time
Marinate the pork for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
Grilling Technique
Grill the pork over medium-high heat to achieve a slightly charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
Tzatziki Freshness
Make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time and allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Potato Crispness
For extra crispy roast potatoes, parboil them before roasting and toss them with olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.
Salad Quality
Use the freshest, ripest tomatoes and cucumbers for the Greek salad for the best flavor.
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