Cambodian Grilled Lemongrass Beef Skewers Recipe

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Cambodian Grilled Lemongrass Beef Skewers Recipe
Total
1 hr
Servings
18

Method

  1. In a mortar and pestle or mini food processor, combine lemongrass, bay leaves, thyme, lemon zest, lime zest, ginger, and garlic.

  2. Pound the ingredients until they are well crushed and a coarse paste forms.

  3. Add turmeric, lemon juice, salt, sugar, and cinnamon to the paste.

  4. Pound again and mix well.

  5. Set the paste aside. It can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 3 days.

  6. Place the beef in a mixing bowl and toss it with fish sauce and oil.

  7. Stir in the aromatic paste until the beef is evenly coated.

  8. Thread the beef strips onto bamboo skewers.

  9. Set the skewers aside until ready to grill.

  10. When all the charcoal is lit and covered with gray ash, pour it out and spread the coals evenly over half of the charcoal grate. Alternatively, set all the burners of a gas grill to high heat.

  11. Set the cooking grate in place, cover the grill, and allow it to preheat for 5 minutes.

  12. Grill the beef skewers over direct heat until they are cooked through, about 3 minutes per side.

  13. Serve the skewers right away.

About this recipe

Are you looking for a flavorful and aromatic dish to spice up your next barbecue? Look no further than Cambodian grilled lemongrass beef skewers! These mouthwatering skewers are packed with savory flavors and are perfect for a summer cookout or a simple weeknight dinner. In this article, we'll explore the art of making these delicious grilled skewers and discover the secrets behind their tantalizing taste.

The Magic of Lemongrass

At the heart of Cambodian grilled lemongrass beef skewers lies the secret ingredient - lemongrass. This fragrant herb adds a unique citrusy flavor to the dish, infusing the beef with a delightful tang. Just like the lemongrass plant, these skewers are versatile and adaptable. They can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with a variety of dipping sauces and sides to create a complete meal.

The Perfect Marinade

To achieve the ultimate taste, marinating the beef is essential. The marinade acts as a flavor enhancer, tenderizing the meat and infusing it with a myriad of spices and aromatics. With a combination of lemongrass, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a hint of sugar, the marinade creates a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors. Allow the beef to marinate for at least two hours, or even overnight, for maximum flavor penetration.

Skewering and Grilling

Once the beef has absorbed all the delicious flavors from the marinade, it's time to skewer and grill it to perfection. Thread the marinated beef onto skewers, alternating with colorful vegetables like bell peppers and onions for added texture and visual appeal. The skewers should be grilled over medium-high heat, allowing the beef to develop a beautiful char on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. Remember to turn the skewers occasionally for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Cambodian grilled lemongrass beef skewers are ready, it's time to serve them up and enjoy their incredible flavors. These skewers can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even as part of a buffet-style spread. Pair them with a refreshing cucumber salad, a side of fluffy jasmine rice, or a zesty peanut sauce for dipping. The possibilities are endless, and the choice is yours!

  1. Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef for this recipe?

    A: Absolutely! While the recipe traditionally calls for beef, you can easily substitute it with chicken or even pork to suit your preferences.

  2. Q: Can I grill these skewers on a stovetop grill pan?

    A: Yes, you can! If you don't have access to an outdoor grill, a stovetop grill pan works just as well to achieve those delicious char marks.

  3. Q: How long should I marinate the beef?

    A: For the best flavor, marinate the beef for at least two hours. However, if you have the time, allowing it to marinate overnight will intensify the flavors even more.

  4. Q: Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

    A: Absolutely! You can marinate the beef in advance and assemble the skewers right before grilling. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining guests.

  5. Q: How do I prevent the skewers from sticking to the grill?

    A: To prevent sticking, make sure to oil the grill grates thoroughly before cooking. You can also brush a little oil onto the skewers themselves.

  6. Q: Can I freeze the marinated beef?

    A: Yes, you can! If you want to prepare the beef in advance, simply marinate it and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

  7. Q: Can I use dried lemongrass instead of fresh?

    A: While fresh lemongrass provides the best flavor, you can use dried lemongrass if fresh is not available. However, the taste may be slightly different.

  8. Q: Are these skewers spicy?

    A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a mild flavor, reduce the amount of chili or omit it altogether.

In Conclusion

Cambodian grilled lemongrass beef skewers are a delightful dish that combines the freshness of lemongrass with the smoky flavors of the grill. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or simply craving a taste of Cambodian cuisine, these skewers are sure to impress. The marinade, the grilling process, and the versatility of the dish make it a crowd-pleaser every time. So, fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and indulge in the deliciousness of Cambodian grilled lemongrass beef skewers!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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