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This Armenian mixed grill platter brings together a medley of succulent marinated meats and perfectly charred vegetables for a feast that always turns heads at my family gatherings. With options for lamb, beef, chicken, and pork plus a rainbow of grilled sides, this spread is a celebration on a single tray. I love how every component can be prepped ahead and how easily you can scale it for a crowd. Armenian BBQ sauce adds a tangy kick that brings all the flavors to life.
I first made this for my dad’s birthday when we set the picnic table outside and spent hours laughing and eating. It has become my go-to recipe for special occasions or cozy Sunday feasts.
Ingredients
- Lamb chops: Choose well-marbled cuts for maximum tenderness
- Olive oil: Brings flavor and helps the marinade soak in
- Fresh garlic: Key for that signature aromatic depth
- Lemon juice: Brightens and tenderizes the meats
- Paprika and smoked paprika: Add subtle warmth and smokiness
- Dried oregano and cumin: Provide earthy backbone and highlight the authenticity
- Ground beef or lamb: For kebabs seek out good-quality mince with a bit of fat
- Onion and coriander: Underscore the sweetness in both kebabs and veggies
- Chicken breast or thigh: Use thighs for juicier skewers but breast works fine
- Yogurt: Makes chicken extra tender
- Tomato paste: Intensifies color and savory flavor in both marinade and BBQ sauce
- Pork shoulder: Excellent for grilling because it stays juicy
- Vinegar and mustard: Balance richness and add tang in pork
- Garlic powder: Quick pop of flavor when time is short
- Salt and pepper: Season generously to draw out taste in every bite
- Baby potatoes: Parboil just until fork-tender for best grill marks
- Red onion: Thick slices stand up to the grill and turn sweet
- Cherry tomatoes on the vine: Give juicy burst and visual flair
- Green chili peppers: Lend a mild kick but not overpowering
- Butternut squash or pumpkin: Earthy and sweet when grilled
- Fresh parsley: A final burst of color and herbal lift
- Pomegranate molasses: Traditional in Armenian cooking it brings sweetness and tartness to the sauce
- Red chili flakes: Just enough heat to tingle the tongue
When picking meats choose ones with visible marbling and smell fresh. For veggies go for firm and vibrant produce that feels heavy for its size.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Meats:
- Combine each marinade with its respective protein making sure every piece is coated thoroughly. Massage with your hands then cover and chill for at least four hours or overnight so the flavors develop deeply.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Scrub and halve baby potatoes then parboil until just fork-tender. Slice red onions thick so they do not fall apart. Skewer tomatoes and cube the squash for even grilling. Toss all veggies lightly with olive oil and season with salt.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Fire up your grill to medium-high and clean the grates well. Allow at least ten minutes to get consistent heat so you get that essential char.
- Thread and Prep for Grilling:
- Thread marinated meats onto skewers or arrange directly on the grill as appropriate. Set vegetables on flat skewers or directly on the grate using a grill basket if needed for smaller pieces.
- Grill Until Perfect:
- Grill each meat until nicely charred outside and cooked to proper internal temperature. Flip only once or twice for beautiful marks and juiciness. At the same time grill the vegetables until nicely blistered and cooked through.
- Mix the BBQ Sauce:
- Whisk together tomato paste pomegranate molasses vinegar grated garlic salt chili flakes and a splash of warm water so it is smooth and pourable.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Pile grilled meats and veggies onto a large platter. Drizzle BBQ sauce over or serve it on the side. Sprinkle with chopped parsley just before bringing to the table.
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The pomegranate molasses in the sauce is one of my favorite Armenian pantry staples sweet and tangy with an unmistakable depth. Watching my family pull the skewers off the grill is always a highlight everyone gathers around and the whole backyard smells incredible.
Storage tips
Store any grilled meats and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator and they will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to freeze leftovers separate the meats and veggies so they reheat better. The sauce keeps well in the fridge for a week and often develops even more flavor overnight.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have pomegranate molasses use a mix of balsamic vinegar and a touch of honey for a similar effect. Any mixture of proteins will work so substitute shrimp or tofu if you need a seafood or vegetarian option. Sweet potatoes or zucchini are great stand-ins for other vegetables.
Serving suggestions
Serve the platter with warm lavash or pita and sides like a fresh cucumber salad or tangy yogurt dip. This meal shines at picnics but is just as perfect for a cozy family dinner. Offer a big bowl of the Armenian BBQ sauce so everyone can help themselves.
Cultural and historical context
Armenian mixed grill goes way back to countryside feasts and holiday gatherings. The custom of marinating and grilling meats over an open fire is rooted in mountain villages where communal cooking is part of celebration. The tangy BBQ sauce reflects the region’s love for bold sweet sour flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → What kinds of meats are included?
This platter includes lamb chops, luleh-style ground beef or lamb, chicken skewers, and pork skewers, each marinated in unique spice blends.
- → How do I achieve juicy and flavorful meat?
Marinate the meats for 4–6 hours or overnight to ensure deep flavor and tenderness. Grill over medium-high heat until perfectly cooked.
- → Which vegetables work best on the grill?
Baby potatoes, thick onion slices, cherry tomatoes, green chili peppers, and cubes of squash provide a colorful, flavorful accompaniment.
- → What internal temperatures should the meats reach?
Cook chicken to 74°C, pork to 71°C, and grill beef or lamb to your preferred level of doneness for safety and taste.
- → Can I prepare the BBQ sauce in advance?
Yes, you can mix the Armenian-style BBQ sauce ingredients ahead of time and adjust the consistency with warm water just before serving.
- → Is this dish suitable for group gatherings?
Absolutely—its variety of meats and vegetables is ideal for sharing and makes a festive centerpiece for any spread.