Marinade

This is a flavorful marinade blend, often called 'yakhni' or simply a spice rub, used to tenderize and season meats in Middle Eastern cuisine. It typically features a base of yogurt or lemon juice combined with a fragrant mix of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, garlic, and paprika. The acidic and enzymatic components work to break down muscle fibers, resulting in exceptionally tender and juicy grilled or roasted meats.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Being a condiment, it is low in calories, carbohydrates, and fat per serving, with the main nutritional contribution coming from the spices' antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. The yogurt-based versions add a small amount of protein and probiotics, while the lemon juice provides a boost of vitamin C.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	120 kcal
Protein	2.5 g
Carbs	18 g
Fat	4.5 g
Fiber	1.2 g
Sugar	12 g
Sodium	1800 mg
Potassium	320 mg
Iron	1.8 mg
Vitamin C	15 mg
Calcium	45 mg
Magnesium	25 mg
Vitamin B6	0.3 mg
Folate	40 mcg
Manganese	0.4 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The use of yogurt as a tenderizer is a classic Middle Eastern technique, as its lactic acid gently breaks down proteins without making meat mushy. This method also helps the spices penetrate deeply, creating a complex flavor profile that is both savory and slightly tangy, a hallmark of dishes like shawarma and kebabs.