‘Shashlik’, or Russian BBQ, Russia’s main May holiday dish

Russians have long holidays in May, usually three-four days in early May, devoted to Labor Day. And another three-four days devoted to Victory Day, May 9. 

And most Russians dream of these holidays during the long, cold winter. And not only because it usually coincides with the year’s first warm days. But, also, because you can go out with friends and family for a picnic. Or go to the dacha country house. And make ‘shashlik’!

‘Shashlik’ is actually meat on skewers grilled on an open fire. And you wouldn’t swap this authentic smoked smell for any Michelen restaurant dish!

Russians usually cook ‘shashlik’ in a special barbecue called 'mangal'. You can use any meat you prefer, whether it’s pork, chicken or lamb (or fish and veggies). Meat should, however, be chopped into medium-sized cubes, put onto skewers and marinated in advance (with fresh onions and spices, for example). 

This dish has Caucasian roots and is really incredibly popular in Russia!