If you’re craving bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a touch of smokiness without spending hours in the kitchen, these Grilled Bzar-Spiced Vegetable Skewers with Pomegranate Glaze are your answer.
Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of the Arabian Gulf, this recipe celebrates the warmth and complexity of RoboFood Bzar Seasoning while transforming humble vegetables into a showstopping dish perfect for summer barbecues, weekend dinners, or even meatless Mondays.
The aromatic blend of coriander, cumin, turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, and black pepper infuses each piece of vegetable with depth, while a final drizzle of pomegranate molasses adds a sweet-tart finish that elevates the entire experience.
Why This Skewer Recipe Stands Out
Grilled vegetable skewers are nothing new, but what sets this version apart is the thoughtful integration of regional spices and bold contrasts in flavor.
While many recipes rely on basic garlic-olive oil marinades, we’re stepping into the heart of Emirati flavor with Bzar seasoning—a beloved spice mix traditionally used in meat and rice dishes.
Here, we’re giving it a modern, plant-forward twist.
By pairing it with the smoky kiss of charcoal and the jewel-toned sweetness of pomegranate molasses, we create a balance that’s rustic yet refined.
These skewers aren’t just delicious—they’re also a celebration of color and texture.
The natural sweetness of bell peppers and cherry tomatoes intensifies on the grill, while zucchini and red onion develop a tender, slightly charred exterior with a juicy interior.
The spices in the Bzar blend bloom in the heat, creating an aromatic experience that’s impossible to resist.
What is RoboFood Bzar Seasoning?
RoboFood Bzar Seasoning is a traditional Emirati spice blend that brings the soul of Gulf cuisine to your kitchen.
The word “Bzar” (also spelled “Bahar” or “Baharat”) means “spice” in Arabic, and this formulation pays homage to generations of home cooks who carefully balanced warming, earthy, and subtly sweet notes to enhance everyday dishes.
The blend typically includes:
- Coriander – Adds citrusy freshness and mild sweetness.
- Cumin – Delivers earthiness and depth, essential for Middle Eastern flavor profiles.
- Black pepper – Provides a gentle heat and sharp bite.
- Turmeric – Offers a golden hue and mild bitterness with anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Cardamom – Brings floral, eucalyptus-like notes that elevate the aroma.
- Cinnamon – Lends warmth and a hint of sweetness, balancing the sharper spices.
While Bzar is traditionally used in lamb stews, rice dishes like machboos, and chicken preparations, its versatility makes it perfect for vegetables too—especially when you’re aiming for bold, layered flavor with minimal effort.
Choosing the Right Vegetables for Grilling
Not all vegetables hold up well on the grill, so selecting the right ones is key to achieving the ideal texture and flavor.
You want pieces that are firm enough to stay on the skewer but tenderize beautifully with heat.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) – Sweet and sturdy, they caramelize wonderfully.
- Zucchini – Slice into thick rounds or half-moons to prevent falling apart.
- Red onion – Adds pungency that mellows into sweetness when grilled.
- Cherry tomatoes – Burst with juicy acidity and create a beautiful contrast.
- Mushrooms (cremini or portobello) – Offer a meaty texture and soak up spices beautifully.
Feel free to mix and match based on availability and preference, but keep size and density in mind.
Uniformity ensures even cooking and makes for a visually appealing skewer.
The Magic of Marinating with Bzar Seasoning
The key to deeply flavored grilled vegetables lies in the marinade.
While many think marinating is only for proteins, vegetables absorb spices just as well—especially when given enough time and the right oil base.
For this recipe, we create a simple but potent marinade:
- Whisk together olive oil, RoboFood Bzar Seasoning, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of honey or maple syrup to help the spices adhere and encourage caramelization.
- Toss your cut vegetables in the mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes—or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. This allows the spices to penetrate the vegetables and enhances flavor absorption.
As the vegetables grill, the Bzar seasoning toasts slightly, releasing essential oils and deepening in aroma.
You’ll notice the warm notes of cinnamon and cardamom mingling with the char, creating an experience that’s both comforting and exotic.
Grilling Techniques for Maximum Flavor
For the most authentic smoky flavor, we recommend using a charcoal grill.
Charcoal imparts a depth that gas grills often can’t match, and it pairs exceptionally well with the earthy warmth of Bzar seasoning.
Steps:
- Prepare your grill for medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F).
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if using; metal skewers can be used straight away.
- Thread vegetables onto skewers in a colorful pattern—alternating colors not only looks beautiful but also ensures even cooking.
- Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Place skewers on the grill and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes for even charring.
- Look for grill marks and slightly softened vegetables; avoid overcooking to keep them firm and vibrant.
If you’re using a gas grill or indoor grill pan, the same principles apply—just keep an eye on heat levels to avoid burning the spices.
The Pomegranate Molasses Glaze: A Sweet-Tart Finale
While the spices provide complexity, the pomegranate molasses drizzle is what takes this dish from great to unforgettable.
Pomegranate molasses is a concentrated syrup made from reduced pomegranate juice, offering a tangy, slightly sweet, and deeply fruity flavor.
To finish the skewers:
- Just before removing from the grill, lightly brush each skewer with a mixture of pomegranate molasses and a splash of olive oil.
- Return to heat for 30–60 seconds to warm the glaze and let it cling to the vegetables.
- Once plated, drizzle additional molasses around the base of the skewers for visual elegance and bursts of flavor.
For garnish, sprinkle with fresh parsley or mint, toasted pine nuts, and optionally, a few arils from a fresh pomegranate for crunch and color.
Serving Suggestions
These skewers are versatile and can stand alone as a main course for vegans and vegetarians, or serve as an accompaniment to grilled meats like chicken kebabs or lamb chops.
Consider pairing them with:
- Lemon garlic rice – A simple pilaf that complements the spices.
- Yogurt dipping sauce – Mix Greek yogurt with minced garlic, lemon zest, and a pinch of Bzar for a cooling contrast.
- Warm pita or flatbread – Perfect for wrapping skewer pieces into a quick handheld meal.
- Fattoush salad – The crisp freshness balances the smokiness of the grill.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
While best served fresh off the grill, you can prepare the marinated vegetables up to 24 hours in advance.
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Thread the skewers just before grilling to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
While the skewers may lose their crispness, the flavors deepen overnight.
Reheat gently on a grill or in a pan for best results—avoid microwaving, which can make vegetables mushy.
Customizations and Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable.
Here are a few creative ways to switch it up:
- Add tofu or halloumi – For extra protein, cube and marinate tofu or halloumi with the vegetables.
- Spice level boost – Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped fresh chili to the marinade.
- Smoked paprika infusion – Combine a teaspoon of smoked paprika with the Bzar for an even smokier profile.
- Herb twist – Stir chopped cilantro or dill into the marinade for a fresher note.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Grilled Bzar-Spiced Vegetable Skewer recipe is more than just a side dish—it’s a journey through flavor, texture, and tradition.
Whether you’re introducing Middle Eastern spices to your family, looking for impressive vegan dishes, or simply wanting to make grilling more exciting, this recipe delivers.
It’s easy, healthy, and rich in both color and culture.
With RoboFood Bzar Seasoning as the star, you’re not just seasoning food—you’re creating memories, one smoky, aromatic bite at a time.
Bring the Gulf to your backyard.
Fire up the grill, gather your veggies, and let the Bzar blend do the magic.
