Souvlaki in South Africa: Savouring Greece’s Famed Skewered Delight
The Origins of Souvlaki
Souvlaki, a term that translates to “skewer”, has its roots deep in Greek history. Although the dish as we know it has been popular for only a few decades, its history traces back to ancient Greece. Back then, skewered meat was a culinary favourite, and many believe that today’s Souvlaki is a direct descendant of these age-old practices.
What Makes Souvlaki Special?
The beauty of Souvlaki lies in its simplicity. It’s not about a complex blend of spices or a lengthy preparation process. The star here is the meat, often pork, although chicken and lamb variants are also popular. This meat is marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, and a few select herbs, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavourful.
Though occasionally you’ll find vegetables like peppers or tomatoes on the skewer, meat remains the central player. Grilled to perfection, the skewered pieces are often served with pita, a side of tzatziki, and sometimes a fresh salad. This ensemble creates a balanced meal – crispy, creamy, juicy, and utterly delectable.
Souvlaki in South Africa: A Match Made in Culinary Heaven
It might come as a surprise to some, but Souvlaki has found a dedicated following in South Africa. With our nation’s love for braai (barbecue), it’s no wonder that a dish centred around grilled meat would resonate with South Africans.
Mzansi’s diverse culinary landscape welcomes international dishes with open arms. Souvlaki, with its straightforward and authentic taste, fits right in. From Jozi to Cape Town, more and more local eateries and food stalls are introducing Souvlaki to their menus, a testament to its growing popularity.
DIY Souvlaki: Bringing Greece to Your South African Kitchen
If you’re itching to try this dish, you don’t necessarily need to hunt down a Greek restaurant. Making Souvlaki at home is straightforward. Here’s a basic guide to get you started:
Ingredients:
500g of your choice of meat (pork, chicken, or lamb), cut into bite-sized cubes
3 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Wooden skewers
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add the meat cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is ideal.
Thread the marinated meat onto the wooden skewers.
Heat up your grill or braai. Once hot, place the skewers on, turning them occasionally until all sides are nicely browned and the meat is cooked through.
Serve hot with a side of pita, tzatziki, and perhaps a fresh Greek salad.
Final Thoughts
Souvlaki, in its beautiful simplicity, offers a culinary journey to Greece. For South Africans, it’s not just about the flavours but also the communal experience of gathering around a grill, much like our beloved braais. So, next time you’re in the mood for something different, remember the Greek gem that is Souvlaki, and either whip it up at home or find a local spot that serves it up just right. Happy eating, Mzansi!
