Being summer, we are right in the middle of grilling season (one of my favorite seasons)! In an effort to spend more quality time with friends and family, preparing quick and easy food to throw on the grill last minute is always best. That’s the reason why this recipe is perfect: it balances easy cooking with punchy, bold flavors that are sure to please the entire party. Its layers of seasoning and variety of garnishes (chopped peanuts, lettuce and a creamy dipping sauce) brings new texture and flavor to a traditional Middle Eastern dish.
Ingredients:
1 lb sirloin steak (look for a thicker cut), cut into 1 inch pieces
Grape tomatoes
For the marinade:
1/2 cup mirin
3 tablespoons Ponzu
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 stalks lemongrass (outer hard layers removed), chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, chopped
Peanut dipping sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon Cholula sauce (or any spicy hot sauce)
1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
1/2 cup water
For the garnish:
whole, salted peanuts, chopped
Lettuce leaves
Yields: serving for 4
Prep Time: 30 minutes plus marinating time up to 6 hours
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Method:
Mix all the ingredients for the marinade in a bowl.
Place the beef cubes in a ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the beef. Seal the bag while pressing down to remove any excess air.
Place in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight.
When ready to cook, place the beef on skewers, alternating with the grape tomatoes.
Heat the grill to medium high.
Thread the skewers with the beef chunks, alternating with the tomatoes.
Brush the grill grates with olive oil. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes.
Remove from the grill, place on a platter for rest for about 5 minutes. Season to taste.
To make the peanut dipping sauce:
heat the olive oil in a pan over low heat.
Add the ginger and the garlic.
When slightly browned, remove from heat, and add the soy sauce and the hot sauce.
Return the saucepan to the stove top over low heat and add the peanut butter.
Cook until the mixture is well combined.
If the sauce is too thick, add water until you reach desired consistency.
Serve the kebabs garnished with chopped peanuts and wrapped in lettuce leaves.