TAVUK SIS

Kebabs have always been a favourite way to entertain my guests.This is my hundreth recipe! I am very happy about it. So this becomes one more reason for why I like Tavuk Sis.

Tavuk Sis is the Turkish chicken kebabs. Do you know that shish kebabs have originated in Turkey? Cooking meat pieces on open fir, it all started from here.

The preparation of Tavuk Sis is similar to Tandoori chicken, but there is definitely difference in the taste. These kebabs are made from boneless chicken. Chicken breasts and boneless thighs are suitable for this preparation. I feel the result with boneless thighs is better. Well it’s totally upto your preference.

Marinate for minimum 4 hours. Marinating the chicken pieces for overnight will give you best results.

If you are using wooden skewers or satay sticks soak them in water for an hour before threading the chicken pieces.

Recipe for Tavuk Sis

Ingredients for Tavuk Sis

• 450gms boneless chicken thighs
• ¾ cup thick yogurt
• 1 tsp cumin seeds (roasted and ground)
• 1 tsp chilli flakes
• 1 tsp chilli powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon powder
• ½  tbsp minced garlic
• 2 tbsp tomato paste or ketchup
• Salt to taste
• Oil for basting

How to make

Cut the boneless chicken thighs in 2 inch pieces.

In a mixing bowl put the yogurt, garlic, cumin seeds, cinnamon, chilli flakes, chilli powder, tomato paste and salt with chicken pieces. Gently rub the marinade over the pieces.

Marinate for minimum 4 hours to maximum overnight.

Use two satay sticks to thread the pieces as shown in the picture. This will help to handle the pieces better. Soak the satay sticks in water for 30 minutes.

Traditionally the kebabs are cooked on open fire. I have grilled the kebabs in my oven for 8 minutes on each side. You may even use electric or gas tandoor.

Serve with lavash (Turkish bread), salad and yogurt sauce.