Joojeh Kabob (Persian Saffron and Yogurt Chicken Kabobs)

The Persian version of chicken kabob is called Joojeh Kabob. It's one of Iran’s most popular and delicious dishes. The marinade of saffron and turmeric with Greek yogurt and lemon produces juicy, tender, flavorful chicken.

Joojeh Kabob, a popular Iranian grilled dish, is made by marinating chicken in a fragrant and flavorful marinade, until the meat is golden, juicy, and tender. Saffron is one of the most valuable spices in the world. It adds a floral note while the grill gives it a smoky flavor.

You probably don't need an introduction to the chicken kabob if you have ever eaten in a Persian restaurant, or if you have a Persian friend. This dish is often served with other Persian classics, such as Fesenjan (a chicken stew made of pomegranate, walnuts, and saffron) and Barbari Flatbread.

As a child I didn't like lamb, so whenever I went to Iranian restaurants or to family gatherings I always chose Joojeh kabob. Although my taste has changed and I love lamb now, I still fill my plate with these delicious pieces of chicken when I have the opportunity. This chicken kabob is a great recipe for both kids and adults!

Ingredients in this Chicken Kabob recipe

I've been cooking this dish for many years and have finally landed on the ingredients that will make the perfect Joojeh kabob at home.

• ChickenTraditionally Joojeh Kabobs are made using young chickens (also called poussin) with the bones. This recipe uses skinless and boneless chicken breasts because they're easier to find, and provide more meat per bite.
• Tomato purée:Used in marinades as a tenderizer. The saffron enhances the flavor of the tomato puree.
• Greek yogurt. Used in marinades to tenderize chicken.
• Extra virgin Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin oil, such as our Koroneiki Organic Greek EVOO, enriches marinades.
• Turmeric : Adds an earthy flavor and color to chicken kabobs.
• Saffron gives Jujeh a unique flavor and a gorgeous golden color. What Is Saffron? is a guide that will give you tips on how to buy, bloom, and use one of the most highly prized spices in the world.
• Lemon: Add a citrusy flavor to chicken kabobs.
• Pepper and salt: Seasons chicken to enhance the other flavors.
• Garlic and yellow onion: Fresh aromatics that are added to the marinade.
• Fresh Parsley: Used as a garnish to give the kabobs a fresh taste.

How to Make Joojeh Cabob

The marinating time is crucial to a perfect Joojeh Kabob. For perfectly tender chicken, I marinate it overnight.

You can create an authentic Persian experience by cooking the kabobs on charcoal. This recipe can be cooked on a griddle in the kitchen or outside, which is what most homes have. It still has a delicious taste.

• Grind 1 pinch of saffron in a spice mill or pestle and mortar until it becomes a fine powder. If you are using a pestle-and-mortar, be patient. Stir 1/4 teaspoon ground saffron into 3 tablespoons water. Allow 10 minutes for the saffron to bloom.
• Make the marinade. Add one onion thinly sliced, 1 large garlic clove minced or crushed, 1/3 cup Greek Yogurt, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon tomato puree and 1/2 teaspoon turmeric to a large mixing bowl. Add the lemon juice and mix.
• Add chicken. Place chicken in the bowl along with the marinade. Season with salt and pepper. Massage the marinade in with your hands.
• Let the marinate. Cover the plastic wrap with a towel and place in the refrigerator overnight to allow the flavors develop.
• Skewer chicken:The following day, remove the chicken from the refrigerator, shake off excess marinade, and thread the pieces of chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers. (Discard the onions and marinade.)
• Heat a grill or griddle on medium heat. Oil the grill lightly and turn it to high heat. Grill the chicken, turning it every 10-12 minutes, until the meat is fully cooked. The temperature of the chicken should be 165degF.
• Serve. Place cooked Joojeh Kabobs onto a serving plate and sprinkle with finely minced fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Joojeh Kabob variations

This chicken kabob can be customized to suit your taste. You can experiment with the flavors of the marinade. Here are some suggestions:

• Add some spice:Add fresh chilies or a teaspoon of chili sauce to your marinade.
• Add a little smoke: A large pinch of Aleppo adds a mild heat and smoky flavor.
• Another wonder spice to add: Cardamom. Cardamom ground adds a fragrant dimension to kabobs.

Leftovers, Storage and

Store leftover joojeh in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to four days. Arrange the chicken on a large cookie sheet to reheat. Heat in the microwave at 350degF for a few minutes until heated through.

How To Serve Joojeh Kabob

Serve these chicken kabobs as a complete meal with Persian Rice with Potato Tahdig, and Persian Shirazi salad.

Serve as part of an appetizer with Pita Bread and Tabouli Salad, Baba Ganoush (Tabbouleh), Tzatziki, or Tzatziki, Tzatziki, and Baba Ganoush. Sauces like Traditional Toum Garlic Sauce or Tahini Sauce compliment these kabobs. They are especially good when wrapped in lavash with fresh herbs such as mint, tarragon and basil.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I eat in a day on a Mediterranean diet?

The Mediterranean diet is rich in healthy fats, protein, and lots of fresh fruits, veggies, and whole grains. A Mediterranean diet should have seven to 10 portions of fruits and vegetables each day and at least two to four 3-ounces of lean meats such as fish and chicken. Healthy fats like olive oil and nuts are also encouraged in moderate amounts. Aim for at least three servings of whole grains, such as quinoa, barley, or oats, to ensure a balanced diet each day.

Additionally, limiting foods that may be unhealthy when eaten regularly is important, including all processed foods, added sugar, unhealthy fats, white bread, starches, sweetened drinks such as soda or juices, red meat, and processed meats containing saturated fat or nitrates, respectively. Reduced-fat dairy products should be avoided if possible. It is important to limit fish consumption to no more than three times per semaine due to possible mercury contamination.

It's important to plan meals so that you can reap the benefits of the Mediterranean diet.

The Mediterranean diet offers a variety of delicious and nutritious food options that can make it enjoyable. High-quality proteins such a wild-caught salmon, grass-fed pork, and organic eggs are recommended to ensure healthy eating habits. Include heart-healthy fats in nuts, olives. avocados, extra Virgin Olive Oil, and Coconut oil. You should include lots of fresh and/or frozen fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, such as quinoa or barley, in your meals. Also, avoid unhealthy fats and added sugar as well as processed foods, starches red meat, and processed milk products.

What is a typical Mediterranean Breakfast?

A Mediterranean breakfast would include a combination protein, healthy oil, and carbohydrates. The options include eggs in olive oil and roasted vegetables with a side salad, Greek yogurt with cheese, whole-grain Toast, or Quinoa porridge topped off with fresh fruits. Avocado toast with tomatoes and Feta cheese is another great breakfast option. Start your day off the Mediterranean by incorporating high-quality proteins such as wild-caught fish, grass-fed meat, organic eggs, and nuts. Whole grains such as quinoa, oats, and whole grains are good choices. You can also limit the amount of sugar by choosing fresh fruits, avocados, extra virgin olive oils, olives, and coconut oils. For added antioxidants, you might consider adding green tea to your morning breakfast.

How do you get started with the Mediterranean Diet?

Get started on the Mediterranean diet by stocking up your kitchen with fresh fruits and veggies. This could involve preparing different vegetables or proteins every week that can then be used as a base for recipes in the coming days. Refined grains can be replaced with whole grain alternatives like quinoa and oat groats or millet. To add flavor and nutrients to meals, healthy fats like olive and sesame need to be used in the meal preparation. Garlic, oregano basil, garlic, and turmeric all make great additions for meals.

Statistics

• Benefits of Replacing foods high in saturated fats (like butter) with plant sources high in monounsaturated fatty acids, like olive oil, may help lower the risk of heart disease by 19 percent, according to research. (everydayhealth.com)
• The Mediterranean Diet group had a 30% lower relative risk of cardiovascular events compared to the low-fat diet group. (my.clevelandclinic.org)
• Aim to get 20 to 35 percent of your total daily caloric intake from fat, and for saturated fats to represent less than 10 percent of your total caloric intake, advises the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (everydayhealth.com)
• One small study suggested that swapping one-half of your serving of a high-glycemic starch (like rice) with lentils helps lower the glycemic response by 20 percent. (everydayhealth.com)

External Links

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• Mediterranean Diet Beginner's Guide: Ranked #1 Best Diet in 2023 | U.S. News


• Top Diets for 2023 - Expertly Review - US News Health

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• Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease with a Mediterranean Diet

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• American Heart Association


• What is The Mediterranean Diet? American Heart Association

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• (PDF). The Association Between Dietary Patterns, Insulin Resistance and A Systematic Review


• (PDF) Citrus as a component of the Mediterranean diet

How To

What Does the Mediterranean Diet Do to Support Brain Health and Reduce Cognitive Decline?

Mediterranean eating is a way to eat a lot of fruits, vegetables and legumes. It also includes healthy fats and a low intake of red meat and added sugar. It has been linked to many health benefits - including better brain health. According to research, the Mediterranean Diet can slow the aging process and reduce the risk of developing dementia. It can also be used to treat mood disorders and protect against oxidative damage caused by aging.

The Mediterranean diet supports brain health and helps to reduce cognitive decline. Consuming large amounts of antioxidant rich plant foods, such as fruits or vegetables, is one of the best ways to support healthy neurological functioning. Monounsaturated fats like olive oil help maintain adequate omega-3 levels, which is essential for healthy brain functioning. Limiting processed carbohydrates could also improve mental clarity. It can stabilize blood glucose levels throughout your day and reduce inflammation associated chronic diseases like Alzheimer's disease or stroke.

A Mediterranean diet that includes plenty fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins like chicken or fish, whole grains, healthy fats like olive oil, red wine occasionally, and moderate dairy intakes like yogurt and cheese can help maintain adequate nutrition over time. It will also help with cognitive decline. Engaging in moderately vigorous physical activity will increase serotonin levels, which can support mental well-being. These tips combined can help increase your chances of maintaining a good mental and physical health throughout life.

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