Summer is here, and it’s time to fire up the grill. There’s no shortage of options in our meat department, but one of my favourites is chicken and pork souvlaki, paired with our homemade tzatziki sauce. It’s a match made in barbecue heaven, and this duo could be your go-to for the 2024 grilling season.
What is Souvlaki?
It is a beloved Greek dish that dates back to ancient times. The word “souvlaki” means “skewer,” and traditionally, it involves marinated pieces of meat, grilled on a skewer. At Vince’s, we stay true to this tradition. “Our Vince’s Own souvlaki is a family favorite,” adds meat specialist Chris Collucci. “It’s made in house, with locally sourced 100% boneless chicken breast or fresh pork sirloins. It is a must try!”
He also notes that one of the ‘secrets’ to its deliciousness is the authentic Greek marinade that contains fresh garlic, lemon juice, dried herbs, oil and spices.
Perfect with Tzatziki and Other Foods
No souvlaki dinner is complete without a dollop of tzatziki sauce. Another Greek favourite, tzatziki is a creamy yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber, garlic, and olive oil, along with lemon juice and fresh dill. Its cool, tangy flavor complements the savoury notes of the grilled meat.
Our Vince’s Own tzatziki is made in-house with natural ingredients. Nicolina Gauci, Vince’s category manager for Deli, not only enjoys it with souvlaki, she uses it with all kinds of foods. “It’s great as a marinade for chicken, and I use it with lamb chops, or as a veggie dip,” she notes. “And it’s perfect with something as simple as nachos or pita bread.”
Souvlaki Grilling Tips
Grilling souvlaki is easier than you might think. Here are a few basics:
- Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is nice and hot before starting. This helps to sear the meat, locking in the juices.
- Use Direct Heat: Souvlaki cooks quickly, so it’s best to use direct heat. Place the skewers directly over the flame or heat source.
- Turn Frequently: To ensure even cooking and avoid burning, turn the skewers frequently.
- Don’t Overcook: Souvlaki cooks in just a few minutes. Keep an eye on the meat, and remove it from the grill as soon as it’s done.
- Let it Rest: Allow the meat to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Of course, you can do all the prep from scratch, or save the time (and mess), and grab these items from one of our stores. Either way, you’re all set for a deliciously memorable grilling season. So gather your friends and family, light up that grill, and let the good times (and great flavours) roll!
Until next time…
— Neil
