Shish Tawook
Grilled Chicken Skewers
Yes, keto as served. About 6g net carbs per serving, lower than 6 in 10 Saudi dishes.
What it is
Succulent cubes of chicken breast or thigh, marinated in a flavorful blend of yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and spices, then grilled to perfection on skewers.
Key ingredients
Chicken breast/thigh, yogurt (often a small amount for tenderizing), lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, tomato paste (small amount for color/flavor), paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper. Sometimes includes bell peppers and onions on the skewer.
Optional tweaks
Request 'bidoun rozz, bidoun khobz' (without rice, without bread). Ensure no sugary sauces are added after grilling. Opt for skewers with minimal vegetables (or remove high-carb ones if present) or ask for plain chicken skewers.
Say this to the waiter (Arabic)
شيش طاووق بدون أرز وبدون خبز من فضلك. تأكد لي أنه لا توجد صلصات سكرية بعد الشواء. أفضل أسياخ الدجاج السادة أو مع أقل قدر من الخضروات.
Shish Tawook, please without rice and without bread. Ensure no sugary sauces are added after grilling. I prefer plain chicken skewers, or minimal vegetables.
Watch out for
Yogurt in marinade (usually minimal carbs per serving). Tomato paste in marinade (small amounts are fine, but can add up). Hidden sugars in marinades or accompanying garlic/tahini sauces. Bell peppers and onions on skewers (can add a few carbs if eaten in large quantities). Served with fries or rice usually.
Macros are estimates for a typical serving and vary by restaurant. Confirm ingredients with staff, especially if you have allergies. Our ingredient lists are generated automatically and describe how a dish is typically made.
More on the Saudi menuAll 156 Saudi dishes ›
