Shish kabobs are a fun and tasty way to enjoy grilled meat and veggies, but what if you don’t have a grill? No worries! You can easily cook shish kabobs in the oven and still get juicy, flavorful results. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide to help you make perfect oven-baked shish kabobs that everyone will love.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of meat (beef sirloin, chicken breast, lamb, or pork), cut into 1-inch cubes
– Assorted vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, cut into chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh lemon juice, herbs like oregano or thyme, and your favorite marinade or BBQ rub
Equipment:
– Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
– Baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper
– Oven
Step 1: Marinate Your Meat
Start by making a simple marinade to infuse your meat with flavor. Mix olive oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. You can add lemon juice or your favorite herbs if you like. Toss the meat cubes in the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare Your Vegetables
While the meat marinates, chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Choose a colorful mix for a vibrant kabob-red and green bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes are classics. You can lightly toss them in olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs
Thread the meat and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating pieces for a nice balance of flavors and colors. Leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Preheat and Cook
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled kabobs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through. You want the meat cooked to your preferred doneness-check by cutting into a piece or using a meat thermometer (145°F for beef medium-rare, 165°F for chicken).
For a nice charred finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully so the kabobs don’t burn.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, let your kabobs rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices. Serve with rice, salad, or a refreshing tzatziki sauce for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
– Try Different Meats: Chicken, pork, lamb, or even tofu work great.
– Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to your marinade.
– Veggie Variety: Mushrooms, eggplant, or squash add great texture.
– Flavor Boost: Use BBQ rubs, soy sauce, or a splash of vinegar in your marinade.
– Mediterranean Twist: Add feta cheese, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes on the skewers.
Cooking shish kabobs in the oven is a convenient way to enjoy this classic dish anytime, rain or shine. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Give it a try and watch your family and friends ask for seconds! Would you like some recipe ideas or marinade suggestions next?