Description
This flavorful Beef Shish Kebab recipe combines tender beef tenderloin cubes marinated in a savory blend of spices, garlic, tomato paste, olive oil, and lemon juice. Grilled alongside vibrant bell peppers and red onions, these skewers deliver a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and aromatic flavors. Ideal for a quick yet impressive meal, these kebabs cook in just 10 minutes and serve 8 to 9 people.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon allspice
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup olive oil
- ½ cup lemon juice
Main Ingredients
- 3 pounds beef tenderloin or top sirloin (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 large green bell pepper (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 large red bell pepper (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 large yellow bell pepper (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 large red onion (cut into 1-inch pieces)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade and Beef: In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients including salt, brown sugar, cumin, paprika, black pepper, allspice, minced garlic, tomato paste, olive oil, and lemon juice. Transfer ¼ cup of this marinade to a larger separate bowl for the vegetables and ¼ cup to a smaller bowl to use later for basting. Place the cubed beef into the remaining marinade in the large bowl, toss well to coat completely, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
- Marinate the Vegetables: Add the cubed green, red, and yellow bell peppers along with the red onion pieces into the large bowl containing the reserved ¼ cup of marinade. Toss gently but thoroughly, then set aside until you’re ready to assemble the skewers.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to high heat for about 10 minutes to ensure a hot cooking surface. Lightly brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking and promote even grilling.
- Assemble the Skewers: Begin threading the marinated beef cubes, peppers, and onions alternately onto skewers until all the ingredients are used. You should yield approximately 8 skewers total.
- Grill the Kebabs: Place the assembled shish kebabs onto the preheated grill. Grill for 8 to 10 minutes, turning the skewers occasionally to achieve even cooking and a nice char on all sides. During grilling, occasionally brush the kebabs with the reserved marinade from the small bowl to keep them moist and flavorful.
- Rest and Serve: Once grilled to your preferred doneness, transfer the kebabs to a serving platter. Allow them to rest for 5 minutes to redistribute the juices before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use beef tenderloin or top sirloin for tender and juicy kebabs.
- Marinating for longer than 30 minutes can enhance flavor but avoid over-marinating to prevent meat texture breakdown.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to avoid burning.
- For a smoky flavor, use charcoal or wood chips on your grill.
- Vegetables can be swapped or added according to preference, such as mushrooms or cherry tomatoes.
- Ensure even cutting of all ingredients for uniform cooking.
