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Colombian Grilled Skewers

Serves 4 to 6 Appetizer meat, Appetizers

Colombian Grilled Skewers

Colombian Grilled Skewers, known locally as "pinchos," are a beloved staple at family gatherings and casual weekend meals. This home-style version is the way Colombian families have perfected it over generations, balancing the simplicity of ingredients with a communal dining experience. No special occasion is required to enjoy these skewers, but they often make their presence felt during sunny afternoons, when the grill becomes the heart of the home.

Expect each bite to deliver a satisfying blend of smoky lamb, softened by the sweetness of grilled onion. The cumin adds a warm, earthy note, while the olive oil ensures a luscious mouthfeel. Salt and pepper, applied by instinct rather than measure, finish the skewers, making them a canvas for lively conversation and shared moments, one tender piece at a time.

Ingredients

  • 600 glamb cubes
  • 1onion
  • 2 tbspolive oil
  • 1 tspcumin
  • to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

  1. Start by preparing the ingredients. Cut the 600 g of lamb into evenly sized cubes, about 2.5 cm each, to ensure they cook uniformly. Peel and quarter the onion, then separate the layers to create pieces that can be easily threaded onto skewers. Set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lamb cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cumin, and season with fine sea salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly so that each piece of lamb is well-coated with the oil and spices, which will help to infuse flavor and keep the meat moist during grilling.
  3. Thread the lamb cubes and onion pieces alternately onto skewers, pressing them together slightly to ensure they hold firmly. This arrangement allows the onion to impart its sweetness to the lamb as it grills, enhancing the overall flavor.
  4. Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. If using a stovetop grill pan, heat it over medium-high until it's hot enough that a drop of water sizzles and evaporates on contact. This ensures a good sear on the meat, which helps lock in the juices.
  5. Place the skewers on the grill or grill pan, leaving a bit of space between each one to allow for even cooking. Grill for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lamb is browned on all sides and the onions are slightly charred. The lamb should be tender and juicy inside, with a slightly crisp exterior.
  6. Once the skewers are cooked to your liking, remove them from the grill and sprinkle with a bit more fine sea salt if desired. This final touch of salt enhances the flavors and brings out the natural taste of the lamb and spices. Serve immediately, encouraging everyone to share and enjoy the communal spirit of Colombian home cooking.
Cover of Authentic Colombian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Colombian Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Colombian Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Colombian volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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