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Lebanese Beef Skewers 2

Serves 4 to 6 Entree meat

Lebanese Beef Skewers 2

Lebanese Beef Skewers, known simply as skewers among family tables, are a cherished staple of home cooking in Lebanon. This version is a reflection of the everyday way families prepare it, with salt measured by instinct and fat embraced for its flavor. It's a dish that speaks of comfort and familiarity, a regular sight at lunches and casual dinners.

The skewers should be juicy, with the beef's natural flavors enhanced by a hint of cumin and the subtle sweetness of onion. Each bite is a tender, savory delight, with the oil adding a lushness that binds the elements together. These skewers invite sharing, making them a centerpiece for communal eating, where everyone reaches for another taste.

Ingredients

  • 800 gbeef cubes
  • 1onion
  • 2 tbspoil
  • 1 tspcumin
  • as neededskewers
  • to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

  1. Begin by preparing the beef cubes (800 g) for seasoning. Place them in a large bowl and sprinkle with 1 tsp of cumin, fine sea salt, and black pepper to taste. Toss the cubes thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the spices. This step infuses the meat with flavor and prepares it for browning.
  2. Peel and finely chop 1 onion. In a large skillet or grill pan, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will add a sweet, aromatic base to the beef.
  3. Add the seasoned beef cubes to the pan in a single layer, ensuring they do not overcrowd. Allow them to brown on one side without moving them for about 4-5 minutes, or until a deep, rich color develops. Turn the cubes to brown the other sides, ensuring each piece has a nice crust. This browning step is crucial for developing flavor through the Maillard reaction.
  4. Once the beef is well-browned, decide whether to braise or grill the skewers. If braising, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the beef cook gently until tender, about 15-20 minutes, checking occasionally. If grilling, thread the beef cubes onto skewers and place them on a preheated grill, cooking until the meat is tender and slightly charred, turning occasionally.
  5. After cooking, taste a piece of beef to check for seasoning. Adjust with additional salt and pepper if necessary. The beef should be tender and flavorful, with a slight char on the outside.
  6. Serve the Lebanese Beef Skewers 2 with your choice of rice, bread, or salad. This dish is designed for sharing, embodying the communal spirit of a Lebanese home meal.
Cover of Authentic Lebanese Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Lebanese Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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