Jerusalem mixed grill

Jerusalem Mixed Grill Recipe - Authentic Israeli Dish

Region / culture: Israel | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Jerusalem mixed grill is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines a variety of meats with a blend of Middle Eastern spices. This dish is popular in Jerusalem and throughout the Middle East, and is often served as street food or at casual restaurants. The combination of chicken breasts, hearts, and livers creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

History

Jerusalem mixed grill has its roots in Middle Eastern cuisine, where grilling meats is a common cooking technique. The dish is believed to have originated in Jerusalem, where it has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of spices used in this recipe reflects the rich culinary traditions of the region, and the use of chicken hearts and livers adds a unique twist to the dish.

Ingredients

2 tsp of turmeric
1 tsp of black peppercorns
1 tsp of allspice berries
0.25 tsp of ground cinnamon
0.25 tsp of freshly grated nutmeg
0.5 lb (227 g) of chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
0.5 lb (227 g) of chicken hearts, halved and rinsed
0.5 lb (227 g) of chicken livers, rinsed and roughly chopped
2 tbsp of extra-virgin olive oil
2 large yellow onions, roughly chopped
kosher salt, to taste
Fresh pitas, amba, and pickled peppers for serving could be added also.

How to prepare

In a spice grinder, combine turmeric, peppercorns, allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Grind the spices until they form a fine powder. Set aside.
Heat a 12" cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it is almost smoking. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 2–3 minutes, flipping them once, until they are browned but not fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a bowl and set aside.
Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the chicken hearts. Cook the hearts for 2–3 minutes, flipping them occasionally, until they are browned but not fully cooked. Transfer the hearts to the bowl with the chicken breasts. Repeat this step with the chicken livers.
Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the oil. Then, add the onions and cook them for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and slightly charred.
Add the reserved spices and the chicken to the skillet. Season with salt. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked, which should take about 3 minutes.
To serve, cut slits in the tops of the pitas. Fill the pitas with the chicken mixture and top each sandwich with some of the amba and pickled peppers.

Variations

Substitute lamb or beef for the chicken in this recipe for a different flavor profile.
Add diced tomatoes or cucumbers to the chicken mixture for a refreshing twist.
Serve the Jerusalem mixed grill over rice or couscous for a heartier meal.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the meats before adding the spices to enhance the flavor of the dish.

- Use a cast-iron skillet for even cooking and to create a nice sear on the meats.

- Adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste preferences.

- Serve the Jerusalem mixed grill with fresh peppers for added flavor and a pop of color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Jerusalem mixed grill with warm pita bread, hummus, and a side salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling, sautéing

Ingredient Substitutions

Use ground spices instead of whole spices for convenience.

- Substitute chicken thighs for the chicken breasts for a juicier texture.

- Use vegetable oil instead of olive oil for a milder flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the spice blend and marinate the meats in advance for quicker cooking. Store the marinated meats in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Jerusalem mixed grill on a platter with a drizzle of tahini sauce and a sprinkle of sumac for a colorful and appetizing presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Jerusalem mixed grill with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing mint tea for a delightful dining experience. Serve with a side of tabbouleh or baba ganoush for a complete Middle Eastern meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the Jerusalem mixed grill in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quick and easy meal.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 280 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 10% of the daily recommended intake per serving

Vitamin A: 15% of the daily recommended intake per serving

Alergens

Contains: None listed

Summary

Jerusalem mixed grill is a protein-rich dish that is moderate in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of iron and vitamin A, making it a nutritious option for a balanced diet.

Summary

Jerusalem mixed grill is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines a variety of meats with aromatic spices for a flavorful meal. With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, this dish is a satisfying option for a well-rounded diet. Serve with your favorite Middle Eastern sides and enjoy a taste of Jerusalem in your own home.

How did I get this recipe?

by the exotic flavors and spices of the Middle East. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Sarah, who had just returned from a trip to Jerusalem. She was excited to share with me the recipe for a dish she had tried while she was there called "Jerusalem mixed grill."

As she began to explain the ingredients and the cooking process, I could feel my mouth watering in anticipation. The dish consisted of a colorful medley of grilled meats and vegetables, marinated in a fragrant blend of spices and herbs. It sounded like a symphony of flavors, with each ingredient playing its own unique tune.

Sarah had learned the recipe from a local chef in Jerusalem, who had generously shared his culinary expertise with her. She had watched him prepare the dish with such precision and care, infusing each cut of meat and slice of vegetable with his own personal touch.

I listened intently as Sarah recounted the steps involved in making the Jerusalem mixed grill. It was a labor of love, she said, requiring patience and attention to detail. But the end result was well worth the effort, as the dish was a feast for the senses.

After she had finished explaining the recipe, I knew I had to try making it myself. I was determined to recreate the flavors of Jerusalem in my own kitchen, using Sarah's guidance as my compass.

I gathered the ingredients together, making sure to select the freshest meats and vegetables available. I marinated the meats in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a blend of Middle Eastern spices. The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, transporting me to the bustling markets of Jerusalem.

As I grilled the meats and vegetables, I could hear the sizzle of the flames and smell the charred edges of the food. The colors of the dish were vibrant and inviting, a true feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

When the Jerusalem mixed grill was finally ready, I plated it with care, arranging the meats and vegetables in a colorful display. I garnished the dish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of tahini sauce, adding the final touches to my culinary creation.

I sat down at the table, eager to taste the fruits of my labor. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that warm summer day in Sarah's kitchen. The flavors were bold and complex, with hints of cumin, coriander, and sumac dancing on my tongue.

I closed my eyes and savored each bite, letting the tastes and textures of the Jerusalem mixed grill wash over me. It was a truly magical experience, one that I would never forget.

From that day on, the recipe for Jerusalem mixed grill became a staple in my kitchen. I prepared it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and special occasions, delighting my guests with the exotic flavors of the Middle East.

As I shared the recipe with others, I passed on the tradition of culinary exploration and discovery. Each time I made the Jerusalem mixed grill, I felt a connection to the chef in Jerusalem who had inspired me to try something new and exciting.

And so, the recipe for Jerusalem mixed grill became more than just a dish to me. It was a symbol of friendship, adventure, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. And for that, I will always be grateful to Sarah and the chef in Jerusalem who sparked my culinary imagination.