Easy Steps to Make Souvla Like a Local!

If you're looking to recreate the flavours of a true Cypriot backyard feast, you need to know how to make souvla. This traditional dish is more than just grilled meat. It’s a social experience, slow-cooked over coals, shared with friends and family, and packed with bold, simple flavours.

In this blog, you’ll learn how to prepare authentic Cypriot souvla, step by step, using easy-to-follow methods. We’ll also cover how to make the most of your brick BBQ kit and how to enjoy healthy but tasty recipes using this classic grilling method.

Whether you’re cooking on a Cyprus BBQ grill or a custom-built brick setup, these steps will help you make souvla just like the locals do.

What Is Souvla?

Souvla is a traditional Cypriot barbecue dish. It involves large chunks of meat, usually pork, lamb, or chicken, slowly roasted on a long skewer over a charcoal fire. The meat is basted and turned using a rotisserie mechanism, giving it a crispy outside and juicy centre.

It’s not to be confused with souvlaki, which is cooked faster and uses smaller pieces of meat. Souvla is all about slow cooking, and it’s commonly prepared for Sunday meals, holidays, or family gatherings.

Step 1: Choose Your Meat Wisely

Traditionally, pork shoulder or leg of lamb are the top choices. But chicken and goat are also popular in some regions of Cyprus.

Best Meats for Souvla:

• Pork neck or shoulder (rich in fat and flavour)
• Leg or shoulder of lamb (tender and aromatic)
• Chicken thighs or whole spatchcocked chicken
• Goat (less common but traditional in rural areas)

Always choose bone-in cuts with some fat. Fat adds flavour and keeps the meat juicy during long cooking.

Step 2: Prepare Your BBQ Setup

To get the authentic taste of Cypriot souvla, the setup is crucial. If you don’t already have one, a brick BBQ kit is ideal. These kits offer stable heat control and are perfect for traditional charcoal cooking.

If you're using a BBQ rotisserie, make sure the skewers rotate smoothly, and the distance from the charcoal is adjustable. This is important for even cooking.

Checklist for Your BBQ Setup:

• Brick BBQ or Cyprus BBQ grill
• Rotisserie motor and skewers
• Charcoal (avoid gas for authentic flavour)
• Heat-resistant gloves and tongs

This setup also works well for preparing other healthy but tasty recipes, as it promotes slow cooking without added oil or frying.

Step 3: Marinate Like a Local

Cypriots keep it simple but effective. You don’t need a long list of ingredients.

Traditional Souvla Marinade:

• Olive oil
• Fresh lemon juice
• Dried oregano
• Salt and pepper

Rub the marinade all over the meat and let it sit for at least 1 hour. For deeper flavour, marinate overnight in the fridge.

Pro Tip: Do not use strong marinades with sugar or vinegar, as they can burn over charcoal.

Step 4: Light the Charcoal the Right Way

For souvla, you want medium heat, not roaring flames. Light your charcoal and let it settle into a steady, glowing bed of embers. Spread it evenly under your rotisserie area.

If you’re using a brick BBQ kit, you’ll get excellent heat retention. The bricks will keep the warmth consistent even if the charcoal burns down over time.

Avoid adding charcoal once the cooking has started, as it changes the temperature and flavour.

Step 5: Start Grilling with Patience

Skewer the marinated meat pieces on your rotisserie rods. Place them about 8 to 10 inches above the charcoal bed. Start rotating slowly and consistently.

At first, the meat should be cooked gently. This helps seal in juices. After 30 minutes, bring the meat slightly closer to the heat to create that perfect golden crust.

Baste occasionally with olive oil or lemon juice to keep the surface moist and flavourful.

Total cook time varies based on the meat:

• Pork and lamb: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Chicken: 1 to 1.5 hours

Keep checking for tenderness and crispy edges. You’ll know it’s done when the meat is evenly browned and pulls apart easily.

Bonus Tip: Serve It the Traditional Way

Once the meat is ready, slide it off the skewers and serve hot. You don’t need fancy sides to enjoy souvla.

Popular Side Dishes:

• Fresh village salad (tomato, cucumber, olives, onion)
• Warm pita bread
• Roasted or boiled potatoes
• Tzatziki or tahini sauce

Because souvla is cooked over real charcoal and uses minimal ingredients, it’s an excellent option for healthy but tasty recipes at your next gathering.

Maintain Your BBQ Equipment

After cooking, always clean your grill and skewers. Charcoal buildup can affect the next round of grilling. A clean brick BBQ kit or rotisserie system will last longer and deliver better-tasting results.

Why Souvla Is a Healthier BBQ Option

When compared to fried meat or oily marinades, souvla is simple and nutritious. The slow cooking lets fat drip away while keeping the meat juicy. This makes it one of the top healthy but tasty recipes to try at home.

Pair it with grilled vegetables or whole-grain sides for a balanced meal.

Where to Get the Right Tools

Looking to upgrade your grilling setup? A brick BBQ kit is one of the best choices for authentic and long-lasting outdoor cooking. You can also explore our BBQ rotisserie kits for easy motorized turning and hands-free cooking.

Our store offers high-quality options that suit every backyard and budget.

Explore more in our BBQ rotisserie kits.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best meat for souvla?

Pork shoulder or lamb leg is traditional. They are fatty and cook well over charcoal.

2. Can I use a gas grill for souvla?

It’s possible, but you’ll miss out on the smoky flavour that makes souvla special. A charcoal or brick BBQ kit is preferred.

3. How do I keep the meat from drying out?

Cook slowly over medium heat and bake regularly with olive oil and lemon juice.

4. Do I need a motorized rotisserie?

While not required, it helps maintain even cooking without constant turning. Check out our BBQ rotisserie options for convenience.

5. Is souvla a healthy meal option?

Yes. It uses minimal oil, fresh ingredients, and natural charcoal grilling, making it one of the best healthy but tasty recipes.

Souvla Cooking Time by Meat Type

Final Thoughts

Souvla is more than just a dish, it’s a symbol of Cypriot hospitality and togetherness. With the right meat, a brick BBQ kit, and some patience, anyone can recreate this beloved tradition at home.

Whether you’re planning a Sunday cookout or looking to explore healthy but tasty recipes, souvla is a great place to start. With each bite, you’ll taste the simplicity, quality, and heritage of Cypriot cooking.

Looking for more traditional grilling ideas? Check out our full range of outdoor kits, from BBQ rotisserie systems to high-end Cyprus BBQ grills, all available at Sunshine BBQs.