Discover the Mouthwatering Magic of Eastern Mediterranean Grilling at CERU
Indulge in a gastronomic journey like no other at CERU, where the art of Eastern Mediterranean grilling brings out the most spectacular flavours. With every dish meticulously crafted, we capture the essence of the region's rich culinary heritage, transforming fresh, locally-sourced ingredients into an explosion of tastes and textures. If you've ever wished to experience the culinary delights of destinations like Cyprus, Lebanon, or Turkey, without stepping on a plane, we've got you covered.
At CERU, we believe that the secrets to outstanding Eastern Mediterranean grilling lie in the perfect blend of traditional techniques and innovative culinary artistry. Our expert chefs have mastered the skill of marrying diverse flavours that explode with every bite, creating a sensory experience that leaves you craving more.
Regional Variations in Eastern Mediterranean Grilling
Across the Eastern Mediterranean, unique flavours and grilling techniques have emerged in response to local ingredients, climate, and cultural traditions. Here, we spotlight some of the distinct regional variations found within this diverse culinary landscape:
1. Turkish Grilling: Renowned for its succulent kebabs, Turkish grilling features skewered meats cooked over an open flame, often accompanied by freshly grilled vegetables. Iconic dishes include the Adana kebab, which showcases finely minced, spiced lamb, and the shish kebab, featuring tender cubes of marinated meat.
2. Greek Souvlaki: Hailing from Greece, souvlaki is a popular grilled dish in which small pieces of marinated meat, such as pork, chicken or lamb, are skewered and cooked over an open fire. Traditionally served with pita bread, fresh salad, and tzatziki, souvlaki embodies the quintessential flavours of Greek grilling.
3. Lebanese Grilling: Lebanese grilling is celebrated for its rich and flavourful blend of spices and marinades, which infuse meats and vegetables with a sumptuous depth of taste. Signature dishes such as kafta, shawarma, and taouk reflect the elaborate seasoning and slow grilling techniques characteristic of Lebanese cuisine.
Traditional Methods and Techniques
The key techniques behind the art of Eastern Mediterranean grilling lie in the careful preparation, skilful cooking, and precise timing, as well as the delicate balance of heat, smoke, and flame. By mastering these principles, we are able to create the perfect grilled dish:
1. Marination: In Eastern Mediterranean grilling, marination plays a crucial role in infusing meats and vegetables with rich flavours and tenderising them prior to cooking. Typical marinades are composed of a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, yoghurt, and regional spices, allowing ingredients to absorb flavours while remaining tender and juicy.
2. Skewering: A variety of skewering techniques are employed in Eastern Mediterranean grilling, from traditional metal or wooden skewers to more elaborate set-ups such as rotating spits. Skewers offer a practical means of cooking smaller pieces of meat and vegetables while also imparting the unique char-grilled flavour that characterises these dishes.
3. Cooking over Charcoal: Traditional Eastern Mediterranean grilling methods rely on cooking over glowing charcoal embers, producing a distinctive smoky flavour and allowing for a steady, even heat source. This technique ensures perfectly cooked ingredients with a desirable crispy exterior and succulent interior.
Must-Have Tools and Equipment
To create an authentic Eastern Mediterranean grilling experience, certain tools and equipment are indispensable in helping to achieve the precise heat control, tantalising aromas, and perfect grill marks sought after by aficionados of this culinary art form:
1. Charcoal Grill: A high-quality charcoal grill is a true essential for capturing the smoky, aromatic flavours of Eastern Mediterranean dishes. The ability to control the heat by adjusting the positioning of the charcoal and the grill grates allows for perfect cooking results every time.
2. Skewers: A selection of flat metal skewers is ideal for grilling delicate meats and vegetables while ensuring even cooking and reducing the risk of ingredients sticking. Flat skewers offer an advantage over round skewers, as they help to grip the ingredients securely, preventing them from spinning during cooking.
3. Basting Brush: A basting brush is a vital tool for regular basting during the grilling process, helping to keep meats and vegetables moist and infusing them with the rich flavours of the marinade. Opt for a heat-resistant brush with durable bristles to withstand the high heat of the grill.
4. Tongs and Spatulas: A sturdy set of tongs and a wide, heat-resistant spatula are indispensable when grilling, allowing you to effortlessly turn and handle meats, vegetables, and bread without scorching your fingers or accidentally piercing the ingredients, ensuring they remain tender and juicy.
CERU's Secret to Perfect Eastern Mediterranean Grilled Delights
The art of Eastern Mediterranean grilling is a captivating fusion of regional traditions, time-tested techniques, and flavourful ingredients, culminating in a culinary experience that delights the senses and nourishes the soul.
At CERU, we pay homage to this awe-inspiring culinary tradition, combining ancient wisdom and modern innovation to create tantalising grilled dishes that excite the palate and transport diners through a journey of taste and texture unlike any other.
Join us for a spectacular grilling experience that celebrates the rich heritage and exceptional flavours of Eastern Mediterranean cuisine! Book your Mediterranean brunch here at our restaurant in London!