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Steps
### How to Make Authentic Arni Souvlaki Lamb: A Step-by-Step Guide
#### Introduction to Arni Souvlaki
Arni souvlaki is a classic Greek dish that features tender lamb skewers cooked on a vertical rotisserie or in an oven. The dish is known for its juicy, flavorful meat and the perfect blend of herbs and spices. Here’s how you can recreate this delicious Greek delicacy at home.
#### Ingredients
- 1 kg (2 lbs) boneless lamb shoulder
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp honey (optional)
- Toothpicks or skewers
#### Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Meat thermometer (for oven method only)
- Aluminum foil
- Skewer holder or vertical rotisserie
#### Preparation Steps
1. **Preparation of Lamb**
- Begin by trimming the lamb shoulder into small, bite-sized pieces, ensuring each piece is roughly 1-inch square.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well mixed.
2. **Marinating the Lamb**
- Add the lamb pieces to the seasoned marinade in the bowl. Make sure each piece is coated evenly with the mixture.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
3. **Preparation of Skewers**
- Thread the marinated lamb onto skewers, ensuring to leave a small gap between each piece for even cooking.
- If using an oven method, you may need to use toothpicks to secure the ends of the skewers.
4. **Cooking Method 1: Oven Roasting**
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Place the lamb skewers on a wire rack set over a baking tray.
- Drizzle with additional olive oil and lemon juice, if desired.
- Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil and roast for about 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to allow the lamb to crisp slightly.
5. **Cooking Method 2: Vertical Rotisserie**
- If using a rotisserie, preheat it to around 230°C (446°F).
- Insert the skewers into the rotisserie and cook for about 1 hour or until the meat is well-cooked and tender.
- Baste occasionally with any leftover marinade or olive oil.
6. **Finishing Touches**
- Once cooked, remove the lamb from the heat source. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- If you used honey in your marinade, this step is particularly important as it helps create a caramelized, sweet exterior.
7. **Serving Suggestions**
- Serve Arni souvlaki hot with pita bread, Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, and lemon wedges on the side. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to make a complete meal.
#### Tips for Success
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor significantly.
- Ensure your lamb is well-sealed during cooking to retain moisture and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning according to personal taste preferences.
By following these steps, you can create an authentic Arni souvlaki lamb that will transport your taste buds straight to Greece. Enjoy the rich flavors of this traditional dish!