Pork Souvlaki Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it brings the vibrant flavors of Greece right to my kitchen, turning a simple meal into a delicious adventure every time. Plus, the combination of tender, marinated pork with warm pita and fresh garnishes just makes my taste buds dance with joy!

Pork Souvlaki is a traditional Greek dish crafted from cut-up pieces of pork that have been marinated, skewered, and grilled. It’s made with tender pork tenderloin that is nutrient-rich and flavored well.

The marinade consists of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and red wine vinegar that makes the meat succulent. The use of garlic, oregano, and thyme not only seasons the meat well but also perfumes the dish in a way that makes your mouth water.

A basic meal consists of the skewers served with fresh pita, but you can also use accompaniments that make a complete meal.

Ingredients

Pork Tenderloin:
Grilling is ideal for this tender, flavorful, lean protein.

Olive Oil:
Fats that are good for the heart.

They contribute a lot of flavor and richness and moisture when eating the food.

Lemon Juice:
Delivers a zesty citrus taste; loaded with vitamin C.

Garlic:
Contributes a powerful taste; is bursting with antioxidants; helps bolster your immune system.

Dried Oregano:
Green, a coloration derived from chlorophyll, conveys the flavor of the plant and is rich in antioxidants.

Its aroma enhances the herbaceous quality.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound pork tenderloin or pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Pita bread, for serving
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Tzatziki sauce, for serving (optional)
• Sliced red onions, for garnish (optional)
• Tomato slices, for garnish (optional)
• Cucumber slices, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a big bowl, blend the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.

2. The marinade is added to the pork cubes, which are then tossed about until they are properly coated. The bowl in which this is done is covered with plastic wrap and placed in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour but can stay there overnight for better flavor.

3. Prepare a grill or grill pan by bringing it up to a medium-high heat.

4. Skewering, the marinated pork cubes onto skewers, leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.

5. Cook the skewers on the preheated grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and lightly charred on all sides.

6. Take the skewers off the grill, permite them to repose and rest for a few minutes.

7. Place the pita bread on the grill for 1-2 minutes on each side, until warm, soft, and just slightly charred.

8. Present the pork souvlaki as a platter with warm pita bread and lemon wedges.

9. If wanted, garnish with tzatziki sauce, red onion slices, tomato slices, and cucumber slices.

10. Savor your delectable pork souvlaki by enveloping the grilled pork and its accoutrements in pita bread.

Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Measuring spoons
3. Garlic press or knife (for mincing garlic)
4. Plastic wrap
5. Grill or grill pan
6. Skewers
7. Tongs (for turning skewers and pita)
8. Knife (for slicing garnish if needed)
9. Serving platter

FAQ

• What cut of pork is best for souvlaki?It is recommended that either pork tenderloin or pork shoulder is used due to its flavor and tenderness.
• How long should I marinate the pork?For at least 2 hours, and preferably overnight, allow the meat to soak up the flavors by marinating it.
• Can I grill the pork instead of cooking it on the stovetop?Indeed, giving the pork a delightful smoky flavor that is ideal for souvlaki is what grilling does best.
• Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice?The bright, tangy flavor of fresh lemon juice is preferred in the marinade.
• Can I substitute red wine vinegar with another type of vinegar?You can use white wine vinegar as a substitute, but the flavor might be a little different.
• Should I serve the souvlaki with pita bread?Indeed, it is traditional to serve this dish with warm pita bread, which complements it perfectly.
• Is tzatziki sauce essential for serving?Optional, but highly recommended, is the tzatziki sauce. Its creamy texture and refreshing taste pair well with the dish.

Substitutions and Variations

Use chicken breast or lamb shoulder instead of pork tenderloin.
Instead of using olive oil, use either avocado oil or sunflower oil.
Substitute fresh lemon juice with lime juice or white wine vinegar.
Substitute apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for red wine vinegar.
Instead of dried oregano, use fresh oregano or a combination of herbs such as rosemary and basil.

Pro Tips

1. Marinate Longer for Flavor While a minimum marinade time of 1 hour is suggested, allowing the pork to marinate overnight will enhance the flavors significantly. The acids in the lemon juice and vinegar tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor, making it more delicious.

2. Soak Skewers If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the pork. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

3. Use a Meat Thermometer To ensure the pork is cooked but still juicy, use a meat thermometer. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

4. Oil the Grill Before grilling, make sure to oil the grill grates lightly to prevent the pork from sticking. This also helps achieve a beautiful char on the meat.

5. Customize Garnishes Feel free to customize the garnishes to suit your taste. For added crunch and freshness, consider adding some sliced bell peppers or pickled vegetables to the platter.