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Street Food

Ivorian Beef Skewers (Brochettes de Boeuf)

(0)
40 min (incl. marinating)
Prep
10 min
Cook

Ingredients

  • 600 g (1.3 lb) beef sirloin, cubed
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers

Method

  1. Combine oil, cumin, paprika, cayenne, garlic and salt in a bowl.
  2. Toss the beef cubes in the spice mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Thread the beef onto skewers.
  4. Grill over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred outside and cooked to preference.
  5. Serve hot, often with fried plantain or bread.

Introduction: Small, well-spiced beef skewers grilled over open coals, a common evening street food sold alongside fried plantain and cold drinks across Ivorian cities.

Cultural Background: Small, well-spiced beef skewers grilled over open coals, a common evening street food sold alongside fried plantain and cold drinks across Ivorian cities.

Tips: Don't overcrowd the skewers – leave small gaps between cubes for even cooking. Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Variations: Add bell pepper and onion chunks between the meat for a classic vegetable-studded variation.

Storage: Refrigerate cooked skewers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat or a low oven to avoid drying out the meat.

Nutrition: Approx. per serving: 320 kcal, 30 g protein, 2 g carbohydrate, 20 g fat

FAQs:

Q: What cut of beef works best?

A: Sirloin or a similarly tender cut is ideal for quick grilling; tougher cuts will need a longer marinade to tenderize.

Q: Can these be baked instead of grilled?

A: Yes, bake at 220C (425F) for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway, though grilling gives more authentic char and smokiness.