Beef Shish Kebab

Name: Beef Shish Kebab
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; ¼ cup aged balsamic vinegar; ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 1 teaspoon kosher sea salt; 2 cloves garlic (finely minced); ¼ cup low-sodium tamari sauce; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 8 ounces baby bell mushrooms (halved); 2 pounds top sirloin steak (cut into cubes); 3 bell peppers (any color, chopped into 1-inch pieces); 1 large red onion (sliced into 1-inch chunks)

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Before we delve into the delicious world of beef shish kebab, let’s explore what’s great to serve alongside this dish. Imagine sitting in your backyard, the grill sizzles as the aroma of grilled meat fills the air. What could make this moment even better? A few perfect pairings will elevate your shish kebab experience.

1. Tzatziki Sauce: A cooling tzatziki, made of yogurt and cucumber, brings a refreshing contrast to the charred flavors of the kebab. It’s like a mini-vacation for your taste buds.

2. Pita Bread: Soft and warm pita is a fantastic vehicle for your kebabs. You can wrap the meat and veggies, creating a delicious bite full of flavor.

3. Grilled Vegetables: Think zucchini, eggplant, or corn. These veggies, with their smoky flavor from the grill, work hand in hand with beef shish kebabs.

Why go for simple meals when you can indulge in an experience that transforms a regular dinner into a festive occasion? Beef shish kebab is one of those meals that sing with flavor and celebration. Each skewer is loaded with juicy beef, vibrant veggies, and a delightful marinade. As a food enthusiast and a registered dietitian, I appreciate how this dish appeals to the senses and nourishes the body. And if you haven’t tried making these kebabs at home yet, let me assure you—once you do, you’ll be the star of every backyard gathering.

Table of Contents

What is Beef Shish Kebab?

So, what exactly is beef shish kebab? It’s a dish originating from the Middle East, featuring marinated chunks of beef threaded onto skewers with vegetables and grilled to perfection. The word “shish” means skewer in Turkish, while “kebab” refers to meat.

The combination of marinated beef and charred veggies creates a dish that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious. Each bite reflects the perfect blend of spices, smoke, and tenderness.

Why This Recipe Works?

When exploring beef shish kebab recipes, some stand out for their ease and flavor depth. Here’s why this recipe works:

1. Flavorful Marinade: The marinade is a game-changer. It includes a mix of Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, and spices that imbue the beef with a rich taste. The acidity helps tenderize the meat.

2. Versatile Ingredients: Use any color bell pepper or substitute with what you have. This flexibility means you can customize the kebabs to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

3. Fast Cooking Time: Skewering the beef and veggies reduces cooking time significantly. You spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with loved ones.

4. Presentation Prowess: The colorful skewers look beautiful when served. They become not just a meal but a centerpiece that catches the eye.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

Gather your ingredients before we dive into the cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Marinade:

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
¼ cup aged balsamic vinegar
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon kosher sea salt
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
¼ cup low-sodium tamari sauce
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Beef Shish Kebab:

8 ounces baby bell mushrooms, halved
2 pounds top sirloin steak, cut into cubes
3 bell peppers (any color), chopped into 1-inch pieces
1 large red onion, sliced into 1-inch chunks

How To Make This Beef Shish Kebab?

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of preparing this splendid dish. Here’s a step-by-step guide you’ll want to follow.

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, black pepper, kosher salt, minced garlic, tamari sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, and smoked paprika. Whisk until it’s well combined. This marinade is where the magic begins.

Step 2: Marinate the Beef

Place the cubed top sirloin into a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag, and make sure every piece of beef is coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or even overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

While the beef marinates, chop the bell peppers and onion into chunks. Halve the baby bell mushrooms. This part is where you can have fun with color and texture!

Step 4: Skewer the Ingredients

Once the beef has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Preheat your grill. Thread the beef, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms onto skewers, alternating as you go. Make sure everything fits snugly but not too tightly.

Step 5: Grill the Kebabs

Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. You’ll want that perfect char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the beef reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. Serve them hot with your favorite sides and sauces. Enjoy every single bite!

Tips & Tricks

Here are some tips to enhance your shish kebab experience:

Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure to leave a bit of space between pieces on the skewers to allow for even cooking.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will give you the best flavor and nutrition. So pick the ripest peppers!
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to play around with herbs and spices. Adding thyme or oregano can give an extra layer of taste.
Serve Hot: Kebabs taste best fresh off the grill. Don’t let them sit too long before serving.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a glance at the nutrition you can expect from a serving size of beef shish kebab (approximately 2 skewers):

Calories: 360
Protein: 33g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 2g

This dish offers a nutrient-dense option rich in protein and packed with vitamins from the vegetables.

How Do You Store The Leftovers?

If you find yourself with leftovers, fear not! Follow these proper storage methods:

Cool Down: Allow the kebabs to cool to room temperature.
Refrigerate: Store the kebabs in a sealed container in the fridge. They’ll last for 3-4 days.
Reheating: For the best result, reheat them in the oven or grill to maintain that lovely char. Microwaving may result in a loss of texture.

What Sides Would Complement Beef Shish Kebab?

Let’s consider a few side dishes that pair beautifully with beef shish kebab:

1. Greek Salad: A fresh Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese creates a refreshing contrast to the rich meat.

2. Mediterranean couscous: Fluffy couscous infused with lemon, herbs, and olives complements the beef’s richness while adding a different texture.

3. Hummus with Veggies: Creamy hummus with crunchy veggies or warm pita bread can round out the meal, providing a satisfying dipper while keeping things healthy.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?

Sometimes, you may find yourself short on specific ingredients. No worries; here are alternatives:

1. Different Cuts of Meat: If you don’t have top sirloin, you can use flank steak or tenderloin for a tender and juicy result.

2. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to replace bell peppers with zucchini or cherry tomatoes. They’ll also grill up beautifully.

3. Alternative Marinades: If you’re out of balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar can provide a similar tangy flavor.

4. Low-FODMAP Options: Use garlic-infused oil instead of fresh garlic for those sensitive to FODMAPs. It keeps the taste without compromising digestion.

Before we delve into the delicious world of beef shish kebab, let's explore what's great to serve alongside this dish.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Marinating time 1

Total Time 1 25

Course Main Course

Cuisine Middle Eastern

Servings

Calories 360 kcal

Equipment

Bowl
Cup