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Grilled Sweetbreads

This elegant grilled sweetbreads recipe offers a sophisticated way to enjoy offal with minimal fuss. By gently poaching the sweetbreads in a vinegar-infused brine before grilling, you ensure a tender, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with a charred, golden exterior. The addition of a vibrant chimichurri sauce provides a fresh, herbal lift that cuts through the richness of the meat, making it an impressive choice for a seasonal starter.

As a diabetes-friendly dish, this recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and rich in protein, making it a nutritious option for a health-conscious diet. The preparation is straightforward, requiring only a few high-quality ingredients and a hot grill. Serve these skewers alongside a crisp green salad or light seasonal vegetables for a balanced and flavourful homemade meal.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Grilled Sweetbreads

  • 450g sweetbreads

  • 3.8L cold water

  • 240ml distilled white vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons salt

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • Accompaniment: chimichurri sauce

  • 4 (12-inch) wooden skewers, soaked in warm water 1 hour

How to make Grilled Sweetbreads

Rinse sweetbreads well, then transfer to a 6-quart pot and add water, vinegar, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer gently 10 minutes. Drain sweetbreads in a colander, then transfer to a bowl of ice and cold water to cool.

While sweetbreads are cooling, prepare grill for cooking over direct heat with medium-hot charcoal (moderately high heat for gas; see "Grilling Procedure").

Drain sweetbreads, then pat dry gently and separate into roughly 1 1/2-inch pieces (about 20) using your fingers. Toss sweetbread pieces with oil in a bowl, then thread onto skewers (about 5 pieces on each). Season with salt and pepper.

Grill sweetbreads on lightly oiled grill rack (covered only if using a gas grill), turning occasionally, until golden brown, 5 to 7 minutes total. Transfer to a platter and let stand, loosely covered with foil, 5 minutes.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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