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Pakistani Beef Skewers

Serves 4 to 6 Entree meat

Pakistani Beef Skewers

Pakistani Beef Skewers are a beloved staple in homes from Karachi to Peshawar, often gracing tables during weekend family lunches or festive celebrations. This home-style preparation captures the essence of regional cooking, where generous pinches of salt and a confident hand with fat create a dish that's both satisfying and deeply rooted in tradition.

As you bite into these skewers, expect tender, juicy beef, perfectly seasoned with a touch of cumin and freshly ground black pepper. The onion lends a subtle sweetness, balancing the savory richness of the meat. This dish invites communal eating, a platter shared amongst loved ones, embodying the spirit of togetherness without the need for ceremony.

Ingredients

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

Method

  1. Start by placing 800 g of beef cubes in a large mixing bowl. Add 1 tsp of cumin, fine sea salt, and black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly, ensuring each piece of beef is evenly coated with the spices. This step is crucial for infusing the beef with flavor.
  2. Peel and finely chop 1 onion. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown, which will add a sweet, aromatic base to the dish.
  3. Add the seasoned beef cubes to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Brown the beef on all sides, turning occasionally, until each piece has a deep, rich color. This caramelization will enhance the flavor of the beef.
  4. If you prefer to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high. Thread the browned beef cubes onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Grill the skewers, turning occasionally, until the beef is tender and cooked through, with a slightly charred exterior.
  5. If braising, after browning, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the beef cook gently until tender, stirring occasionally. The beef is done when it is easily pierced with a fork and has absorbed the flavors of the spices.
  6. Taste a piece of beef and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the skewers hot, accompanied by rice, bread, or a fresh salad, allowing everyone to enjoy the communal spirit of Pakistani dining.
Cover of Authentic Pakistani Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Pakistani Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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