Sharmoula bil Lahm (Libyan Marinated Meat Sharmoula)

Ingredients

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp ground paprika
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp ground cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) boneless beef or lamb cubes
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Method

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, paprika, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
2. Add the beef or lamb cubes to the marinade and toss them until they are evenly coated. Ensure that each piece of meat is well covered with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the meat to absorb the marinade.
4. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
5. Thread the marinated meat onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece.
6. Place the skewers on the grill or grill pan and cook for approximately 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
7. While grilling, brush any remaining marinade onto the meat for added flavor and moisture.
8. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
9. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.