Fall in love with this everyday ingredient. It’s used around the world in various guises and not only is is essential to good health; you can put together some lip-smacking dishes that will impress your loved ones or guests.

Food historians believe yoghurt (also known as yogurt, yaourt, yoghurd and yogourt) and other fermented milk products were produced for the first time in Central Asia during the Neolithic Age. Yoghurt is made through the fermentation of milk. It is said that yoghurt is actually “bacteria we eat”. Fermentation takes place because of two useful bacteria: lactobacillus bulgaricus (a helpful soldier bacteria) and streptococcus thermophilus (promotes gastrointestinal health). These added to milk that is at a certain temperature and fermented, creates a flawless and remarkable texture and consistency which we know as yoghurt.

In Greece there is a custom that is still practiced today that involves the eating of yoghurt with honey and walnuts for couples who are just about to go on their honeymoon. This is eaten to encourage prosperity and energy. I say, why do this just once!

Yoghurt also promotes intestinal and vaginal health, builds stronger bones, enhances immunity, improves lactose intolerance, lowers blood pressure and some researchers have suggested that it can have anticancers and weight-loss effects.

All said, the recipe below encourages loads of mmm’s and yum’s and for me, a smile and watching your loved one slide the chicken of the skewer is sexy as hell. Enjoy my Tzatsiki-spiced Chicken Skewers Cooks!

What you will need:

8 (about 800g) chicken thigh fillets, cut into 3cm pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons coriander seeds, crushed
1 teaspoon cumin seeds, crushed
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
1 teaspoon sweet pakrika
1 clove garlic, crushed
mixed salad leaves, to serve
pita bread, to serve
12 bamboo skewers (pre-soak these in water for 15 minutes)

For the tzatziki you will need:

2 Lebanese cucumbers, trimmed and coarsely grated
1 garlic clove, crushed
1 cup (250g) natural yoghurt
1/2 cup finely shredded mint

To put this all together:

1. Combine the chicken, oil, coriander, cumin, sesame seeds, paparika and garlic in a large bowl. Season this will salt and pepper and thread the chicken pieces onto your pre-soaked skewers.
2. To make the tzatziki use your hands to squeeze as much liquid from the cucumber as possible. Place in a medium bowl and add the garlic, yoghurt and mint and stir until combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
3. Now heat a large frying pan over medium to high heat and add the chicken skewers and cook, turning occasionally, for about 6-8 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
4. Once cooked, divide your gorgeous looking and smelling chicken skewers among serving plates. Serve with tzatziki, mixed salad leaves and pita bread.

Cooks, this recipe will serve 4 and takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. Enjoy!