If you’re unfamiliar with Greek cuisine, you might not be aware of the delicious, tender souvlaki. A meat-lover’s dream, this grilled treat is a traditional staple of Greece, and for a good reason. To explore what makes souvlaki so special, Yia Yia’s Homemade Greek Food of New York City goes into the background of this flavorful dish.

What Is Souvlaki?

An authentic Greek food item, souvlaki is essentially marinated meat on a stick. Pork is traditionally the protein of choice, but chicken, swordfish, lamb, and vegetarian options are also fairly common. If you order souvlaki, you can expect grilled pita on the plate, as well. Fresh or grilled tomatoes, peppers, and onions are also included, though they are typically not skewered along with the meat. Tzatziki, a yogurt sauce made from lemon juice, garlic, cucumber, and dill, may be drizzled on top or served on the side.

Where Did It Come From?

The name souvlaki originated from the Greek word “souvla,” which translates to “skewer.” As one could imagine, they are—and always have been—popular with pedestrians. The dish has roots in ancient Greece, where it was called “kandaulos.” Stone racks made for grilling skewers were excavated by archaeologists dating back to 17^th century BCE. Several historical references have been made in the following centuries of souvlaki street fare being sold to travelers. Homer and Aristotle referred to the dish as “obeliskos obelos,” which means “roasting spit.”

How Is the Dish Made?

The juiciness of souvlaki can be owed to its complex marinade. Lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, pepper, garlic, vinegar, and red wine are often what build the perfect tangy taste. To truly soak up these flavors, the meat must be marinated for several hours. The skewers are then grilled to golden perfection and served with pita, fried potatoes, tzatziki, and vegetables.

Yia Yia’s Homemade Greek Food will satisfy your souvlaki craving. And with great prices, quick service, and fresh eats, it’s clear why they’re Manhattan’s first choice for authentic Greek cuisine. To place an order, give them a call at (212) 545-1210. To view their menu, visit them online now.