Souvla

Souvla

Souvla is a popular dish from Cyprus, traditionally cooked on a long skewer over a charcoal barbecue. It is often served at large gatherings or special occasions, such as Easter or weddings. The name 'souvla' comes from the Greek word 'souvlas', which means 'spit' or 'skewer'.

Ingredients and Preparation

The main ingredient in souvla is large pieces of meat, usually pork, lamb, or chicken. The meat is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper before being skewered and cooked.

To prepare souvla, the meat is first cut into large chunks and marinated for several hours or overnight. The marinated meat is then threaded onto large skewers, which are placed over a charcoal barbecue. The meat is turned regularly to ensure it cooks evenly and to prevent it from burning.

Serving

Souvla is typically served with a variety of accompaniments, including pita bread, tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, and potatoes. It is often eaten as part of a meze, a selection of small dishes that are shared among a group of people.

Cultural Significance

Souvla holds a significant place in Cypriot culture. It is not only a beloved dish but also a social event. The process of preparing and cooking souvla often brings families and friends together, and the meal is usually enjoyed in a relaxed, communal setting.

Variations

There are several variations of souvla, including souvlaki, which is made with smaller pieces of meat and often served in a pita bread with tzatziki sauce and salad. Another variation is kontosouvli, a larger cut of pork that is marinated and slow-cooked on a rotisserie.

See Also

• Cypriot cuisine
• Greek cuisine
• Barbecue

References

• Cypriot cuisine
• Greek cuisine
• Barbecue

External Links

• Cypriot cuisine
• Greek cuisine
• Barbecue