Street Food
Brochettes z’Uburundi (Grilled Meat Skewers)
Ingredients
- - 800 g (1.75 lb) beef or goat meat, cut into 2.5 cm (1 inch) cubes
- - 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- - 3 garlic cloves, minced
- - 1 tsp ground cumin
- - 1 tsp paprika
- - 1 tsp salt
- - 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- - 1 onion, cut into chunks (for skewering)
- - 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks (for skewering)
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt and pepper to make a marinade.
- Add the meat cubes and toss thoroughly to coat.
- Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for deeper flavour.
- Thread the marinated meat onto skewers, alternating with chunks of onion and green pepper.
- Preheat a charcoal grill or griddle pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until charred on the outside and cooked to your preferred doneness.
- Serve hot, straight off the grill, with roasted plantains or bread.
Introduction: Brochettes are the iconic street food of Burundi's evenings, sold from small charcoal grills along roadsides and in bustling market areas.
Cultural Background: Brochettes are the iconic street food of Burundi's evenings, sold from small charcoal grills along roadsides and in bustling market areas. Cubes of marinated goat or beef are threaded onto skewers and grilled to smoky perfection, often eaten standing up alongside a cold drink.
Tips: Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before use to prevent them burning on the grill. Do not overcrowd pieces on the skewer; leave small gaps for even cooking.
Variations: Add cubes of firm plantain between the meat pieces for a sweeter contrast, a popular vendor variation. No authentic vegetarian version exists; the dish is centred on grilled meat.
Storage: Refrigerate cooked skewers for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat on a hot griddle pan for 2-3 minutes per side, or in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 8 minutes.
Nutrition: Approx. 310 kcal, 28 g protein, 5 g carbohydrate, 19 g fat per serving (based on 6 servings).
FAQs:
Q: Can this be cooked without a grill?
A: Yes, a hot griddle pan or oven broiler works well; cook for a similar time, turning frequently.
Q: What’s traditionally served alongside brochettes?
A: Roasted plantains, fried potatoes, or a simple tomato and onion salad are common accompaniments sold by the same street vendors.