Iraqi Tikka Kebabs with Amber Sauce
Recipe Overview
Overview
Iraqi Tikka Kebabs are a delightful dish that showcases the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. The marinade, which features a unique blend of spices and the tangy kick of amber sauce, transforms simple chicken into a flavor-packed delight. The use of mango pickles adds a fruity and slightly sour note that perfectly complements the savory spices. It’s a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also invites you to explore the vibrant culinary traditions of Iraq.
The preparation is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. The key is in the marinade, which requires a variety of spices like turmeric, paprika, and sumac, along with the essential amber sauce. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least an hour, or even overnight, ensures that every bite is infused with flavor. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners, where you can impress your guests with something a little different.
Cooking the kebabs over charcoal gives them a wonderful charred flavor that enhances the overall experience. Pair them with a refreshing fattoush salad for a complete meal that balances the richness of the kebabs with crisp, fresh vegetables. Whether you’re familiar with Iraqi cuisine or trying it for the first time, these kebabs are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Place a saucepan on the stove and add 2 tablespoons of ground fenugreek.
Tip: Use ground fenugreek to add a sweet flavor and a hint of maple syrup.
Add 1 teaspoon of turmeric, 1.5 teaspoons each of mustard powder, ground coriander, and salt, 1 teaspoon of citric acid, and half a teaspoon each of black pepper and cayenne pepper.
Add 500 mL of water to the saucepan.
Add 50 to 100 grams of Indian mango pickles or sour unripe mango chunks with a little white vinegar.
Turn the heat to medium-high, whisk everything together, and let the sauce cook for 10 minutes.
Turn off the heat and let the sauce cool for a few minutes.
Using an immersion blender, blend the sauce until smooth.
Add water a little at a time to thin the sauce to a pourable consistency.
Pour the cooled amber sauce into a jar and store it in the fridge.
Tip: Store the amber sauce in the fridge for 2 to 4 weeks to enhance its flavor.
In a bowl, add 1.5 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon each of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, sumac, and turmeric.
Add 3/4 teaspoon of white pepper, half a teaspoon of citric acid, and 1/4 teaspoon each of cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and ground ginger.
Add 50 grams of tomato ketchup, 15 grams of tomato paste, and 30 mL each of olive oil, lemon juice, and amber sauce.
Tip: If you don't have amber, American mustard can be a good substitute.
Stir everything together to create the marinade.
Slice off the pointy end of the chicken breast, then cut it lengthways into 1-inch wide strips.
Cut the larger pieces into roughly 1-inch chunks.
Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix until thoroughly coated.
Cover the bowl with a plate or plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for about an hour.
Prep a fetouche side salad while the chicken marinates.
Tip: Dress the fetouche salad right before serving to keep it crisp.
Tip: For the best flavor, grill the chicken instead of using an air fryer.
Grab long skewers and slide on about 8 to 10 pieces of chicken, ensuring they aren't crowded.
Once the charcoal has ashed over, place the skewers on top and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, rotating often.
Tip: Rotate the skewers often while grilling to achieve an even char.
Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 72°C.
Serve the chicken kebabs piled over flatbreads with a side of fetouche and extra amber sauce.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Gluten
→ Substitution: Gluten-Free Flour Blend
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Amber sauce is a unique Iraqi condiment made from mango pickles and spices.
- •Marinating chicken for at least an hour enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- •Using an immersion blender helps achieve a smooth consistency for sauces.
- •The combination of spices in the marinade creates a savory and aromatic flavor profile.
