Ingredients
Scale
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 ½ lbs (700g) beef (sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin), cut into 1-inch cubes: Choose a tender cut for juicy, flavorful skewers. Sirloin is a great option, but you can also use other cuts depending on availability.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness to the marinade and helps keep the beef tender during grilling.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: A savory ingredient that adds depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: The acidity helps tenderize the meat and balance the flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: For that essential garlic flavor that complements the beef and vegetables.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor to the beef.
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika: A smoky spice that enhances the grilled flavor of the beef.
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander: Complements the cumin with a citrusy, nutty flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the beef and enhancing all the other flavors.
For the Vegetables:
- 1 large red onion, cut into chunks: The red onion adds sweetness and flavor when grilled.
- 1 large bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), cut into chunks: Choose a colorful pepper to add vibrancy to the skewers.
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds: The zucchini adds a refreshing texture and absorbs the marinade nicely.
- 1 large tomato, cut into chunks: Adds juiciness and a slightly tangy flavor to balance the richness of the beef.
- 1 cup mushrooms, halved (optional): Mushrooms absorb the marinade and provide an earthy flavor that complements the beef.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional): Chopped, for garnishing the skewers after grilling.
For the Grilling:
- Skewers (wooden or metal): If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Optional Side Dishes:
- Rice pilaf or couscous: Serve the skewers with a side of rice or couscous for a more filling meal.
- Grilled pita bread: A side of warm, grilled pita adds extra texture and can be used to dip in sauces or yogurt.
- Tzatziki sauce or hummus: Serve with a side of creamy tzatziki or hummus for an extra layer of flavor.
Instructions
FIRST STEP: PREPARE THE BEEF AND VEGETABLES
- Cut the Beef: Start by cutting the beef into 1-inch cubes. Use a sharp knife to ensure uniform pieces, which will help the beef cook evenly on the skewers. Place the beef in a large bowl for marinating.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Cut the vegetables into bite-sized chunks. The bell pepper, onion, zucchini, and tomato should be large enough to skewer but small enough to cook quickly and evenly. If you’re using mushrooms, halve them so they’ll cook through without becoming too charred.
- Prepare the Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use. This prevents them from catching fire on the grill. If using metal skewers, there’s no need to soak them, but be sure to grease them lightly to prevent sticking.
SECOND STEP: MARINATE THE BEEF
- Mix the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, ground coriander, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and create a well-blended marinade.
- Marinate the Beef: Pour the marinade over the cubed beef in the large bowl. Toss the beef well to ensure that each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the beef to absorb the flavors. You can marinate the beef for up to 2 hours for more intense flavor, but do not marinate too long as the acidic lemon juice can start to break down the beef too much.
THIRD STEP: ASSEMBLE THE SKEWERS
- Skewer the Ingredients: Once the beef has marinated, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Start by alternating the beef with the vegetables on each skewer. You can use any pattern you like, but a good rule of thumb is to place a piece of beef between each vegetable to ensure even cooking. Be sure to leave a small gap between each piece of meat and vegetable to allow air to circulate and help them cook evenly.
- Pack the Skewers: Try to pack the skewers tightly but not too crowded. This will ensure the beef and vegetables cook properly without steaming. You should be able to fit about 4-5 pieces of beef and a few pieces of vegetables on each skewer, depending on the size of your skewers.
FOURTH STEP: GRILL THE SKEWERS
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn down to a consistent medium-high heat. If you’re using a gas grill, make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the skewers from sticking.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the skewers for about 8-10 minutes, turning them every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking. The beef should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium, while the vegetables should be tender and slightly charred.
- Check for Doneness: You can check the doneness of the beef by cutting into one of the pieces or using a meat thermometer. The vegetables should be tender and lightly charred on the outside, while the beef should be juicy and slightly pink on the inside, depending on your preferred doneness.
- Rest the Skewers: Once the skewers are cooked to your liking, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures the beef stays tender.
FINAL STEP: SERVE AND GARNISH
- Serve the Skewers: Arrange the cooked skewers on a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like rice pilaf, couscous, or grilled pita bread.
- Optional Sauces: For added flavor, serve the skewers with a side of tzatziki sauce, hummus, or your favorite dipping sauce. These will add a creamy contrast to the savory beef and vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 35g