Shish Tawook
Levantine Cuisine • Qatar
About Shish Tawook
Marinated chicken skewers.
How to Make Shish Tawook (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Shish Tawook is a beloved grilled chicken skewer dish that has become an essential part of Qatar's Levantine-inspired cuisine. Originating from the Levant, this dish has been embraced across Doha and other regions, appearing on menus at family gatherings, trendy healthy cafes, and Ramadan iftar buffets. Known for its aromatic marinade and succulent bite, Shish Tawook is often served alongside fresh salads, dates, and Arabic coffee, reflecting Qatar’s vibrant food culture that blends local tradition with a cosmopolitan flair. The popularity of Shish Tawook in Qatar owes much to the country’s multicultural community, with influences from Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, and Turkish expat cuisines. Its ease of preparation and versatility make it a favorite at home and in Doha restaurants, especially for health-conscious diners. The dish’s balanced macros and lean protein content suit those tracking calories while enjoying authentic Qatari flavors. Whether enjoyed during Ramadan suhoor, family meals, or as a lighter lunch alternative to machboos, Shish Tawook offers a delicious, guilt-free taste of Qatar’s culinary heritage.
Ingredients(for 2 chicken skewers per person)
- 300g Boneless chicken breast (diyaafah (hospitality) staple)
- 1/4 cup Low-fat plain yogurt (for marinade)
- 2 tbsp Fresh lemon juice (for tangy flavor)
- 3 Garlic cloves (crushed)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (extra virgin)
- 1 tsp Paprika (adds color and flavor)
- 1/2 tsp Ground cumin (Qatari spice blend influence)
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Chopped parsley (for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized cubes.
5 minutes
Uniform cubes ensure even grilling.
- 2
In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
5 minutes
Whisk thoroughly for a smooth marinade.
- 3
Add chicken cubes to the marinade and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
5 minutes
Longer marinating enhances tenderness and taste.
- 4
Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
2 minutes
Leave small gaps between pieces for even cooking.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Shish Tawook recipe prioritizes lean chicken breast, low-fat yogurt, and olive oil, reducing saturated fat and boosting nutrient density. The marinade uses fresh herbs and spices, avoiding heavy oils or excess salt. Grilling instead of frying keeps the calorie count low, making it suitable for weight management, diabetes-friendly diets, and family meals. Its balanced macros and high protein content make it perfect for those seeking nutritious, flavorful Qatari cuisine.
Shish Tawook is packed with lean protein and minimal fat, making it ideal for calorie-conscious diets. Each serving provides 24g of protein, supporting muscle repair and satiety, with only 165 calories and 6g of fat. The use of yogurt and olive oil adds calcium and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while garlic and lemon juice contribute antioxidants and vitamin C. Paprika and cumin offer anti-inflammatory benefits, making this dish a wholesome addition to any meal plan.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Use metal skewers for easy grilling and cleanup.
- 💡Tip 3: Serve with fresh dates for a classic Qatari touch.
Storage & Serving
Store cooked Shish Tawook in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve moisture. Do not freeze yogurt-based marinade.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 165.0 kcal |
| Protein | 24.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4.0 g |
| Total Fat | 6.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
Cultural Notes
Shish Tawook is a QatarCalorie priority food for Qatari, restaurant, Ramadan or expat cuisine tracking in Qatar.
