Lemongrass Beef Skewers

This Lemongrass Beef Skewers recipe is a delightful blend of tender beef infused with zesty lime and aromatic lemongrass. These skewers are perfect for a warm evening or whenever you crave a flavorful dish that bursts with Asian-inspired tastes. The sweet chili sauce adds a touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy lime juice. This dish is not only versatile in its pairings but also quick to prepare, requiring a few key ingredients to create a memorable meal. Marinating the beef in the tangy and fragrant mixture enhances its flavors and tenderness. If you're planning a gathering or just want a delicious home-cooked meal, these skewers will surely impress. They are best served hot, directly from the grill, ensuring every bite is a fusion of flavors. Read on for a detailed recipe with tips and variations for a personal twist.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

250 grams beef fillet
5 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 stalk lemongrass
2 limes

Preparation Time

Total Time: 90 minutes (including 60 minutes for marination)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Lemongrass: Finely chop the lemongrass stalk to release its aromatic oils.
Juice the Limes: Cut the limes in half and extract the juice from both.
Slice the Beef: Take your beef fillet and cut it into small strips, which will be easy to skewer.
Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and chopped lemongrass. Mix thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution.
Marinate the Beef: Place the sliced beef into the marinade, tossing it well to coat each piece.
Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and let the beef marinate in the fridge for at least one hour. This marination step is vital for tender and flavorful results.
Prepare Skewers: Meanwhile, soak wooden skewers in water to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Thread the Beef: After marination, thread the beef strips onto the soaked wooden skewers.
Heat the Pan: Preheat a grill pan to high heat. You want it hot to get a good sear on the beef.
Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the hot pan and grill them for about five minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking on all sides.
Check for Doneness: Once the beef is cooked through and has a slight char, remove the skewers from the heat.
Serve Immediately: Arrange the skewers on a platter and serve them while they're still warm. Enjoy their succulent flavors!

Tips

Substitutions: For a lighter option, you can replace beef with chicken. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Enhancements: Add some sliced onions or bell peppers to the skewers for extra flavors.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in a pan the next day.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 25g
Fats: 15g
Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper to the marinade if you prefer extra heat.
Herbal Aroma: Incorporate fresh coriander or mint into the marinade for an herbal note.
Vegan Option: Use tofu or mushrooms in place of beef and adjust marination time for soft textures.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of jasmine rice for a hearty meal.
Accompany with a fresh green salad to balance flavors and textures.
Add a wedge of lime on the side for an extra tangy touch.

Best Places

Nanxiang Mantou Dian - Known for its dumplings, this restaurant offers an array of flavorful dishes. Location: 85 Yuyuan Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China
The Meat Co. - Offers a range of grilled specialties with an African twist. Location: Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE
Craft London - A modern eatery celebrating British cuisine with a twist. Location: Peninsula Square, Greenwich Peninsula, London, UK
El Churrasco - Iconic for its Argentinian beef dishes, famed for its skewers. Location: Calle de la Lencería, Córdoba, Spain
Barbeque Nation - Offers endless grill options in a vibrant setting. Location: Various locations across India
Grill'd - Known for its healthy take on burgers and beef skewers. Location: Little Bourke St, Melbourne, Australia
Slammin Jammin BBQ - A blend of Southern USA flavors with a focus on meats. Location: Fillmore Street, San Francisco, USA
Carnivore - A meat lover's haven right in Nairobi. Location: Langata Road, Nairobi, Kenya
Zuma Hong Kong - An upscale place featuring contemporary Japanese cuisine. Location: Landmark Atrium, Queen's Road, Central, Hong Kong
The Black Hoof - Known for its nose-to-tail menu and creative dishes. Location: Dundas Street West, Toronto, Canada

Enjoy your culinary journey with this Lemongrass Beef Skewers recipe!