Aleppine grills are among the most iconic dishes of Aleppo known for marinating meat with the city’s special spices such as Aleppo pepper before grilling over charcoal which gives them a smoky distinctive flavor. The meats used typically include beef lamb or chicken and the dish is served with fresh bread salads and appetizers making it a rich balanced main meal.
There are several traditional types of Aleppine grills the most famous being
• Shuqaf: small pieces of marinated meat
• Kebab: seasoned ground meat shaped onto skewers
• Khashkhash: a spiced kebab mixed with parsley and onion then wrapped onto a skewer and grilled over charcoal
In Aleppo it is a cherished tradition for families to gather on Fridays to enjoy grilled meats turning the meal into a social event that brings together relatives and friends around authentic flavors reflecting the warm spirit of Aleppine hospitality.
1. Classic Aleppo Kebab Marinade
For 1 kg finely minced kebab meat:
1 tbsp salt
1/2 tbsp black pepper
2. Khashkhash Kebab Marinade
For 1 kg kebab meat:
Salt
Black pepper
3 cloves garlic, crushed
1/2 tbsp tomato paste
1/2 tbsp red pepper paste
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 bunch parsley, finely chopped
3. Shish Tawook (Chicken) Marinade
3 tbsp yogurt
1 tbsp garlic paste
3/4 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp red pepper paste
2 tbsp salt
1/2 tbsp black pepper
Splash of vinegar
Splash of vegetable oil
4. Lamb Chunks & Chops Marinade
2 tbsp salt
1 tbsp black pepper
Large onion pieces (to grill with t
1. Classic Kebab
Mix meat with salt and pepper only.
Rest for 30 minutes.
Shape on skewers and grill over medium heat.
2. Khashkhash Kebab
Combine meat with garlic, onion, parsley, tomato paste, pepper paste, salt, and pepper.
Rest for 1 hour.
Shape into skewers or small patties.
Grill until cooked and golden.
3. Shish Tawook
Cut chicken breasts into equal cubes.
Mix all marinade ingredients and coat the chicken.
Marinate at least 2 hours (or overnight).
Skewer and grill until golden and fully cooked.
4. Lamb Chunks & Chops
Mix meat with salt and black pepper only.
Grill with onion pieces for extra flavor.
Cook until tender and nicely browned.
