Ingredients:
- Various meats (such as beef steaks, chicken thighs, pork chops, or lamb cutlets): enough for serving
- Tea Rubs: 2 tablespoons (a blend of black tea leaves, ground paprika, ground cumin, and a pinch of sugar)
- Olive oil: 4 tablespoons
- Lemon: 1, zested and juiced
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano): for garnish
- Salt: to taste
- Black pepper: to taste
- Mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini): for grilling
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tea Rubs: In a small bowl, mix the black tea leaves, ground paprika, ground cumin, and sugar. Crush the tea leaves lightly with a mortar and pestle or use a spice grinder to create a fine blend.
- Marinate the Meats: Pat the meats dry with paper towels. Rub each piece of meat with the tea rubs, ensuring even coverage. Let the meats marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor penetration.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Meats: Place the marinated meats on the grill and cook to your desired doneness. Baste with olive oil and turn occasionally to prevent drying out. For chicken and pork, cook until fully cooked through. For beef and lamb, cook to your preferred level of doneness.
- Grill the Vegetables: While the meats are grilling, skewer the mixed vegetables and grill them alongside the meats. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Rest the Meats: Remove the grilled meats from the grill and let them rest on a cutting board or plate for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve: Arrange the rested meats and grilled vegetables on a large platter. Drizzle with any remaining marinade or serve with a side of your favorite barbecue sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon.
Tips:
- The tea rubs add a unique aroma and depth of flavor to the meats, complementing the smoky flavors of grilled meats.
- For a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the marinade.
- This Grilled Meat Platter with Tea Rubs recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue, a special dinner, or a holiday gathering. The addition of tea rubs creates a memorable and aromatic centerpiece for your table.